What Happened Paris Dupree?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris Dupree was a legendary drag queen who rose to fame in the 1980s ball scene. Born in 1949, Dupree was a pioneer of voguing, a dance style that originated in the Harlem ballroom circuit and became popularized by Madonna’s hit song “Vogue” in 1990.

Early Life

Dupree was born as Willie Ninja Leake in Trenton, New Jersey. Growing up, he discovered his love for dance and fashion, which eventually led him to the ballroom scene. The ballroom scene was a subculture made up of LGBTQ+ people of color who would come together to compete in various categories such as “voguing,” “runway,” and “face.”

Rise to Fame

Dupree quickly became one of the most well-known figures in the ball scene, known for his stunning performances and fierce personality. He won multiple awards at various balls and even became a mentor to other aspiring drag queens.

But it wasn’t just Dupree’s talent on the dance floor that made him famous. He also had an incredible sense of style and was known for his extravagant costumes and makeup looks.

Tragic End

Unfortunately, Dupree’s life was cut short when he passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1995 at the age of 46. His death was a huge loss for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly for those involved in the ballroom scene.

Today, Dupree’s legacy lives on through his contributions to vogueing and drag culture. He is remembered not only for his talent but also for his impact on LGBTQ+ rights and representation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris Dupree was a trailblazer who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of drag queens. His legacy will continue to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ people around the world.