Heklina, A San Francisco Drag Legend, Has Died

Heklina, a San Francisco-based drag queen who has been a staple in the community since the 1990s, has suddenly died while touring in London.

The cause of death is unknown, but her friend and fellow drag queen, Peaches Christ, shared the news on Facebook.

"I am shocked and horrified to bring this news to you," Peaches, aka Joshua Grannell, wrote. "I am living in a real-life nightmare so forgive me if I don’t have all the answers just now. This morning, in London, England I went to collect my dear friend Heklina, who is costarring with me in a Mommie Queerest show here, and found her dead."

The two were part of a two-week run of the show at London's Soho Theater. Peaches says she does not know the cause of death. "I know this is shocking news and I am beyond stunned, but I wanted to let folks know what has happened. Heklina is not just my best friend, but a beloved icon of our community. I am a mess. Given this crisis, please do not try to contact me as I am utterly heartbroken, stunned, and focusing on what needs to get done next. I shall be in touch."

According to SFist, Heklina was born Stefan Grygelko and "came to San Francisco in the early 1990s, first working as a barback and bartender at The Stud in SoMa. It was from there and The EndUp that Heklina would help launch multiple club nights, including Trannyshack, which would become an institution lasting over a decade with weekly performances on Tuesdays at midnight."

That club launched many local drag careers as well as hosted Lady Gaga, Charro, Ana Matronic, and more. The London Soho Theatre shared the Facebook post and added, "we will be in contact with audiences from tomorrow."