World’s oldest drag queen Darcelle XV passes away at 92
US, March 27: The Guinness World Record holder for oldest drag queen performer, Darcelle XV, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92, due to natural causes.
Taking to the offical Instagram handle, Darcelle XV Showplace announced the sad news and wrote, "The family of Darcelle XV along with her cast and crew are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Darcelle (Walter W. Cole, Sr.) has died at age 92 from natural causes. We ask for privacy and patience as everyone processes and grieves in their own way and at their own pace. Details of a public memorial will be announced as soon as they are confirmed."
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Notably, Darcelle XV's real name was Walter W. Cole. Darcelle XV was crowned the oldest drag queen by Guinness World Records in 2016.
As per the Guinness World Record, the Darcelle XV Showplace, which the queen owned, is "the West Coast's longest-running drag show."
As per the official Instagram post of Darcelle XV, all the upcoming shows at the cabaret will go on as scheduled.
The post further added that, "All shows at Darcelle XV Showplace will go on as scheduled per Darcelle's wishes. Please join us and celebrate her legacy and memory, thank you in advance for your continued support."
Notably, drag queen Cole was born in 1930 and raised in Portland's Linnton neighbourhood. He served in the US Armed Forces and was discharged in the late 1950s, according to his club's website, which says he used money he received from the military to start his first business.
Walter Cole is described as an author, playwright, actor, costume designer, owner and headliner of the Darcelle XV Showplace, the oldest continuously running cabaret in the United States, celebrating its 54th year.
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- ANI
