Ward, who died on Sunday, appeared in the second series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, before launching a TV career and starring in the BBC documentary Gypsy Queen And Proud. A statement from his family said: “It is with the saddest and deepest sadness that I announce to you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has tragically passed away. Cherry Valentine in June 2022. Credit: Steven Paston/PA “This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand that there is no easy way to announce this. “As his family we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same. “We understand how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched. All we ask for is your patience and prayers at this time. We love you Georgie.” Ward grew up in Darlington, County Durham as part of the Traveler community and qualified as a mental health nurse in 2015 before embarking on his drag career. In December 2020, Ward was announced as one of 12 contestants to compete in the second series of the UK version of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Paying tribute to him on social media, an Instagram post from the program said: “We are heartbroken that Cherry has passed away. She was a kind soul who brought joy and a signature laugh to everyone she met.” Cheers to #DragRaceUK, we will miss him so deeply.” In his introductory video for the show, he described Cherry Valentine’s alter-ego as “glamorous”, “dark” and “gothic”. He said his work as a nurse “put me in the right position to be able to understand people a little bit more. “If you’re a drag queen you work with people. And to understand people, I think you go the extra mile.” George Ward was known by his stage name Cherry Valentine Credit: George Ward/PA After appearing on the show, Ward worked with the BBC to produce a documentary exploring the legacy of the Traveller. In the 2022 special, called Gypsy Queen And Proud, she revisited the community she left at the age of 18. During Covid, she worked as a vaccination nurse and was involved in efforts to encourage others to get their vaccinations. She also performed in public and appeared in music videos by artists such as Charli XCX.
