Culture

Tributes pour in for Hey Qween legend Lady Red Couture

By Sam Damshenas

27th July 2020

Hey Qween legend Lady Red Couture sadly passed away over the weekend.

Jonny McGovern, Lady Red’s co-host, “creative partner” and best friend, announced the news over social media on Saturday (25 July).

“I can’t believe I am writing this message but the unthinkable has happened,” Jonny wrote in a  statement. “This morning at 5am, I received a call from the hospital letting me know that Lady Red just passed away. I was told she was improving yesterday and ready to move out of intensive care.

“But very early this morning she had an episode and coded and she was just gone. I was just with her Mom and sister. We are in shock. We are devastated.”

He added: “I know she meant so much to so many people and everyone will want to know the details and want to understand right away but I BEG YOU ALL for your understanding in allowing her family and I and those who were close to her to grieve in private until we can come to grip with this tragic loss.”

Lady Red, who was a staple in Los Angeles’ drag community, was admitted to hospital due to complications with cyclic vomiting syndrome. At the time, Jonny asked fans for donations to support the drag icon with her medical bills. According to his statement, all of the donations will now “go to her family”.

He will also be supporting Lady Red’s sister with a GoFundMe page to “assist in paying any additional costs”.

Several entertainers paid their respects on social media including Drag Race stars Bebe Zahara Benet, Shangela, Katya, Farrah Moan, Courtney Act, Detox, Juice Boxx, Jan, Darienne Lake, Mayhem Miller and Mrs Kasha Davis, as well as Pose creator Steven Canals, LGBTQ+ activist TS Madison and singer-songwriter Justin Tranter.

https://twitter.com/justtranter/status/1287164404224520193

Shortly before Lady Red passed, she released a powerful video on social media in which she stressed the importance of including the trans community in the Black Lives Matter movement.

“I am a Black, American trans woman who is making a difference in this world,” she said. “All I’m asking is that you love me like I love you. I shouldn’t be afraid to go to the store after a certain time because I’m black. I shouldn’t be afraid and neither should you.

“My call is to everyone, and I mean everyone, because the only way you can make up Black is to combine all of the colours in the rainbow. I’m making it and I want you to make it. Let’s lead in love but also be very honest – we’re gonna have to be uncomfortable to be comfortable.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBO43e4go6R/