If you are a long-time fan of the drag-racing reality television show of RuPaul’s Drag Race, I am sure you are familiar with Sahara Davenport, a contestant on the show from the its second season back in 2010. Unfortunately, Sahara Davenport passed away this past Monday (October 1st, 2012).
Prior to Davenport’s fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race, he was born as Antoine Ashley, and got involved with the drag scene during his college years at Southern Methodist University in Texas, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Dance. After college, Davenport moved to New York, where he started performing at various well-known bars and nightclubs.
In 2010, Davenport was accepted to be part of the season two cast of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where he earned the nickname “The Dancer.” During the sixth episode of the season, Davenport was eliminated from the competition, due to the fact that he did not have enough “rock and roll” attitude.
Even though Davenport was eliminated during the sixth episode of the second season, he continued to receive stardom after getting involved within the music industry. In late 2010, the single “Pump With Me” was released, along with a second single titled “Go Off.”
On October 1st, Sahara Davenport died at the age of 27. The cause of his death is unknown at this point.
Many fans of Davenport have been leaving their respects via Twitter, especially the reality show’s host, RuPaul:
Shocked & heartbroken over @SaharaDavenport. Never occurred to me that we’d ever lose one of my girls. I see them as immortal
just heard about Sahara Davenport. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and fans.
So sad to read of the death of Sahara Davenport. She was one of my faves from RPDR. Gone too soon at 27.
Good morning, world. My emotions are pretty conflicted today between good things and the passing of Sahara Davenport. #ugh#stillcantbelieve
I just can’t even right now. In mourning…..Sahara Davenport passed away….RIP you will be missed. Much love bbgurl, much love.