Who Has Died From Paris Is Burning?

By Robert Palmer

Paris is Burning is a legendary documentary that showcased the New York City ball culture in the late 1980s. The documentary, directed by Jennie Livingston, was released in 1990 and has since become a cultural phenomenon. It shone a light on the lives of black and Latino LGBTQ+ people who were part of the ballroom scene, where they would compete in voguing and other dance categories.

Many of the participants in Paris is Burning have become legendary figures, but unfortunately, some of them have passed away. Here’s a look at some of those who have died from Paris is Burning.

Dorian Corey
Dorian Corey was one of the most unforgettable figures featured in Paris is Burning. She was known for her wit, humor, and incredible fashion sense.

Corey passed away on August 29th, 1993 at the age of 56. She died from complications related to AIDS.

Pepper LaBeija
Pepper LaBeija was one of the founding mothers of the ballroom scene and was featured prominently in Paris is Burning. She passed away on May 14th, 2003 at the age of 53 due to complications from diabetes.

Willi Ninja
Willi Ninja was known as the “Godfather of Voguing” and helped popularize voguing through his performances and choreography. He passed away on September 2nd, 2006 at the age of 45 due to AIDS-related complications.

Venus Xtravaganza
Venus Xtravaganza was a trans woman who was known for her incredible performances and beauty. She tragically passed away on December 21st, 1988 at just 23 years old. Her body was found strangled under a hotel bed.

These are just a few examples of those who have died from Paris is Burning. Their legacies continue to live on through the documentary and the ballroom scene they helped shape. Paris is Burning remains a touchstone for LGBTQ+ people of color, and it’s important to remember those who made it possible.