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Darcelle XV, The World's Oldest Drag Queen, Has Died at 92
Fans are sharing their favorite memories of the icon.
Darcelle XV has passed away at the age of 92.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Darcelle XV was the world’s oldest working drag queen.
Her family shared the news over on social media. “The family of Darcelle XV along with her cast and crew are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Darcelle (Walter W. Cole, Sr.) has died at age 92 from natural causes,” the post read. “We ask for privacy and patience as everyone processes and grieves in their own way and at their own pace.”
It goes on to say that a public memorial will be announced soon and that shows at the Darcelle XV Showplace will "go on as scheduled per Darcelle’s wishes."
"Please join us and celebrate her legacy and memory, thank you in advance for your continued support."
The post has over 5,700 likes, including from RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars 3 legend BenDeLaCreme. Fans are sharing their favorite memories of Darcelle in the comments. “It's not Portland without Darcelle,” one person wrote. Another Top Fan wrote, "Darcelle is a true legend in the world of drag. Darcelle has a heart of gold and had so much love for the world. And the world loved her in return. The community has lost a true ICON."
Darcelle was born on November 16, 1930 in Portland, served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and was discharged after the Korean War in the 1950s.
That wasn't the only history Darcelle made. As reported by Them, the bar she performed at, Darcelle XV Showplace, "is known for hosting the longest-running drag show on the West Coast. The venue was nominated for national historic registry status in June 2020, becoming the first LGBTQ+ establishment in Oregon to be considered. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in November 2020."
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
Taylor Henderson is a PRIDE.com contributor. This proud Texas Bama studied Media Production/Studies and Sociology at The University of Texas at Austin, where he developed his passions for pop culture, writing, and videography. He's absolutely obsessed with Beyoncé, mangoes, and cheesy YA novels that allow him to vicariously experience the teen years he spent in the closet. He's also writing one!
