In August 2020, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 8 and “All Stars” Season 3 queen Chi Chi DeVayne was pronounced dead at the age of 34. The performer — whose given name was Zavion Davenport — died due to suspected kidney failure, which they had been hospitalized for along with pneumonia the month prior. DeVayne shared a video message (via Independent) with fans from their hospital bed, saying, “Keep me in your prayers. I’ll be back soon.” Shortly after the tragic death, DeVayne’s family shared an official announcement on Instagram, saying, “His final words to his family and friends, ‘Never give up!'”
DeVayne was known for their impressive dance skills, impassioned performances, and lovable nature on both seasons they competed on. “I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne,” host RuPaul Charles lamented to Entertainment Weekly. “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.”
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Her co-stars and fellow queens shared their sorrows on social media upon her death, including fellow Season 8 contestant, Dax ExclamationPoint. “Rest in Power Chichi Devayne,” ExclamationPoint posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. “My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to her family and anyone who is hurting right now. She was always sweet, considerate, real and to say the absolute least TALENTED. Say it again: TALENT. The world lost someone genuinely amazing today.”
