George Ward, better known by his stage name Cherry Valentine, was a drag performer who passed away at the age of 28.
Ward had an appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’s second season before taking the lead in the BBC documentary Gypsy Queen And Proud.
His death was a “deep shock,” according to a statement from his family.
Ward, who passed away on Sunday, was a member of the Traveler community and was raised in Darlington, County Durham.
He earned his certification as a mental health nurse in 2015 before launching his drag career.
The death of George Ward, also known as Cherry Valentine, was tragically announced by Ward’s family, who expressed their “deepest sorrow and heartbreak.”
“We recognize that there is no simple way to disclose this, which will come as a major shock to the majority of people.
“His family and I are still coming to terms with his passing, and our lives will never be the same.
“We are aware of how he has adored and the numerous lives that he has impacted. All we need in return, for now, is your tolerance and your prayers. Georgie, you are loved.”
