Fans of RuPaul’s Drag Race are reeling at the loss of fellow queen Bandit, who starred in the second season of Drag Race Thailand back in 2019.
The details surrounding Bandit’s death have not officially been released, though sources told Entertainment Weekly that Bandit died on Tuesday, December 26 in Thailand at just 38 years old.
Known for being a skilled fashion designer and dropping some major looks on the runway, Bandit ultimately placed fourth during his run on the show, but left an impact in his wake.
Pangina Heals, who cohosts Drag Race Thailand, told EW the drag community was “completely lost because Bandit has been a light. He has taught me. I would not be the same person I am today without Bandit teaching me about fashion.”
Heals also posted a memorial to Bandit on Instagram, captioning, “I do not know how we can carry on… rest in peace my angel I will see u again one day.”
Heals also spoke highly of Bandit’s visionary skills, and how he always gave his opinion and guided people toward having better fashion.
“He was such a funny person, such charisma, such magnetism, and without him, all of us don’t know what to do.”
Although the details have yet to be revealed, fellow contestant Kana Warrior posted something on her Instagram Story that alluded to a “decision” Bandit made.
“I’m so sad,” the story said, according to a translation. “But I respect everything, respect you and your decision. Miss you so much.”
Bandit is now the fourth Drag Race contestant throughout the franchise’s 15-year run to have died since the airing of their season. Season 2’s Sahara Davenport was the first to pass away in 2012, then season 8 and All Stars 3 favorite Chi Chi DeVayne left us in 2020, and Drag Race UK star Cherry Valentine died in 2022.
Rest in peace, sweet queens, and our condolences to those most affected by this loss.