RuPaul's Drag Race UK star Cherry Valentine has died at the age of 28, it has been announced.
The performer - real name George Ward - appeared on the second series of the BBC Three show, finishing in 12th place.
After his season of Drag Race ended, Ward went on to front an acclaimed one-off documentary, Cherry Valentine: Gypsy Queen and Proud, which saw him return to his gypsy roots to explore the community's attitude towards LGBT people.
A family statement read: "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.
"All we ask is for your patience and your prayers in this time.
"We love you Georgie. 30 November 1993 - 18 September 2022."
BBC Three controller Fiona Campbell said: "We are all shocked and heartbroken to hear the news of the passing of George, known to many as Cherry Valentine.
"A fan favourite and an inspiration to so many, we were privileged to have worked with him at BBC Three.
"He will be hugely missed by his many fans and friends. Our deepest sympathies are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
A cause of death has yet to be given.
Neil Wilkes
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