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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Zara Woodcock

Michelle Visage pays tribute to Drag Race UK's Cherry Valentine following their death

RuPaul's Drag Race judge Michelle Visage paid tribute to George Ward - known by their drag name Cherry Valentine - following their death at the age of 28.

George appeared on the second season of Drag Race UK and went on to front the hit-BBC documentary 'Cherry Valentine: Gypsy Queen and Proud'.

The star's family confirmed he passed away on Sunday, September 18 with a heartbreaking statement.

Fellow Drag Race judge Michelle took to her Instagram on Friday to share a tribute to George's 'beautiful soul'.

"Cherry, you beautiful soul," Michelle wrote. "After watching your documentary my eyes were opened and I learned so much and I thank you for that, for teaching me.

Cherry passed away at 28 (Instagram)
Michelle paid tribute to Cherry's 'beautiful soul' (Instagram)

"I hate that you had any doubts about who you were because to me you were perfect. I only wish you were here to teach me more."

She concluded: "You were one of a kind with a laugh as big as your heart. This is truly heartbreaking. Rest peacefully, superstar."

Earlier today, George's family released a statement confirming his death.

Michelle shared a snap on Instagram (Instagram)

They said: "It is with the most heart-wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George - Cherry Valentine - has tragically passed away.

"This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced.

"As his family, we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same. We understand how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched."

Cherry's family confirmed the news in a statement (BBC)

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They added: "All we ask is for your patience and your prayers in this time. We love you Georgie. 30 November 1993 - 18 September 2022."

Fellow Drag Race star Cheryl Hole posted on Twitter : "I never thought I’d have to write something like this about such a talented and beautiful person that was Cherry.

"We have lost an incredible queen and I’m honestly devastated! RIP @TheCValentine I LOVE YOU."

George was raised in Darlington, County Durham as part of the Traveller community and qualified as a mental health nurse in 2015, before starting their career in drag.

In their documentary, the star opens up about their life at 18 years old after coming out as gay in the gipsy community.

Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct at 0207 29 33033.

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