Paris Is Burning is a landmark documentary that provides an insightful look into the lives of drag queens in New York City during the 1980s. The film, directed by Jennie Livingston, explores the ball culture of the city and the struggles and triumphs of its participants.
However, as time has passed since the release of the documentary, fans have often wondered what happened to some of its key subjects. In this article, we will explore who died from Paris Is Burning.
Dorian Corey
Dorian Corey is one of the most memorable figures from Paris Is Burning. She was a drag queen and performer who served as a mentor to many other queens in the community. In one iconic scene from the film, she explains how she keeps a mummified body in a trunk in her apartment.
Sadly, Dorian Corey passed away on August 29th, 1993, at the age of 56. After her death, it was revealed that the mummified body found in her apartment was that of Robert Worley, a man who had been murdered and stashed in her closet for several years.
Pepper LaBeija
Pepper LaBeija is another prominent figure from Paris Is Burning. She was a drag queen and founding member of the House of LaBeija. She is known for her sharp wit and commanding presence on screen.
Pepper LaBeija passed away on May 14th, 2003, at the age of 53. Her cause of death was not disclosed publicly.
Angie Xtravaganza
Angie Xtravaganza was a transgender woman who played an important role in Paris Is Burning as a member of the House of Xtravaganza. She was known for her stunning beauty and fierce attitude.
Tragically, Angie Xtravaganza passed away on February 14th, 1993, at the age of 25. Her cause of death was AIDS-related complications.
Willi Ninja
Willi Ninja was a dancer and choreographer who rose to fame as a member of the House of Ninja. He is widely credited with popularizing vogueing and bringing it into the mainstream.
Willi Ninja passed away on September 2nd, 2006, at the age of 45. His cause of death was AIDS-related complications.
Venus Xtravaganza
Venus Xtravaganza is perhaps one of the most tragic figures from Paris Is Burning. She was a transgender woman who dreamt of becoming a model and actress.
However, her life was cut short when she was brutally murdered in December 1988, just months after the film’s release. She was only 23 years old.
Conclusion:
Paris Is Burning introduced audiences to a world that many had never seen before and shed light on an often-underrepresented community. While some of its key figures have since passed away, their legacies live on through the film and the impact they had on drag culture and LGBTQ+ rights.