The American drag queen passed away on the 20th of August from pneumonia. She had been hospitalized earlier in the year due to high blood pressure and suspected kidney failure but was readmitted only weeks later with the diagnosis of pneumonia. Gracie Leader reports.
Chi Chi, born Zavion Davenport, first rose to fame in 2016 as a contestant on series 9 of the cult show RuPaul’s Drag Race. She then competed again in 2018 on the spin off show RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.
The Davenport family confirmed the death Thursday night on the performer’s Instagram. They stated that “His final words to his family and fans, ‘Never give up!’”
Tributes have poured in on social media for the reality tv star and perfomer since the announcement of her death.
“I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne.
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.” wrote RuPaul on Twitter “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.”
Fellow competitor and cast mate Naomi Smalls, who competed on series 9 of the show with Chi Chi, wrote: “Thank you so much for all the love, memories, and constant belly laughs. You will forever hold a special place in everybody’s heart. ? Rest In Power Chi Chi DeVayne”
Chi Chi Devayne was from a working class background and a self-confessed ‘cheap queen’. To her fans and many around the world she represented the notion that you could achieve your dreams no matter your background or income.
Our thoughts and wishes are with the Davenport family at this time.
