RuPaul's Drag Race Star Chi Chi DeVayne Dead at 34

News By TooFab Staff |
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"So devastated and sick to my stomach," wrote Shea Coulee as fellow show alums paid tribute on social media.

Two-time "RuPaul's Drag Race" contestant Chi Chi DeVayne -- real name Zavion Davenport -- has died.

The news comes just days after the 34-year-old posted a video from inside their hospital room saying they were "currently battling pneumonia." Added DeVayne at the time, "Keep me in your prayers. I'll be back soon."

The most recent hospitalization comes after the Shreveport, Louisiana native battled suspected kidney failure back in July. In 2018, Chi Chi was also diagnosed with scleroderma, an autoimmune disease.

"I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne," RuPaul said in a statement to TooFab. "I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all. On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder and the cast and crew of RuPaul’s Drag Race, I extend my deepest sympathy - from our family to hers."

"We're heartbroken to learn that Chi Chi DeVayne has passed away today," added production company World of Wonder. "Her drag spread a message of love and kindness that truly touched each person she met. Rest in power, Chi Chi."

The drag performer quickly became a fan favorite on Season 8 of "RuPaul's Drag Race," where she placed fourth. She later returned for the third season of the show's "All Stars" competition, where she placed eighth.

As news of DeVayne's passing was confirmed, her "Drag Race" family -- including "All Stars 3" contestants Kennedy Davenport, Trixie Mattel, Aja and BeBe Zahara Benet -- began to share their condolences on social media.

"Im so num right now my heart is broken into peaces," wrote Kennedy. "I couldnt even got see her. I love you always  chichi. My dancing angel."

Mattel called her "an iconic queen literally everyone in our industry will always love," while BeBe added, "My heart is breaking. You were such a light, a rare talent, a kind and generous spirit and a force of nature on the stage. Rest well, sister."

"Chi Chi was a flawless human being and nobody will ever tell me different," tweeted Aja. "Life is not fair sometimes. The sweetest angels get ripped away from us. The nicest and most strongest individuals. I will never forget your fun and authentic soul. You deserved so much better."

See more tributes below:

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