RuPaul’s Drag Race superstar Katya Zamolodchikova, known as Brian McCook out of drag, is taking a break from her career to focus on sobriety.
The performer’s official statement was shared on Tuesday, April 9 as a video on her official Instagram page.
“Hi, everybody. There’s a saying for the active alcoholic or drug addict. The trajectory of the life course has three possible outcomes: A. jail; B. institutions; or C. death. Unfortunately, I find myself squarely and firmly and quite uncomfortably in the B camp right now,” Katya said in the video. “But, in an effort to make things good with you in the future, I gotta make things good for me right now.”
She continued:
“Rest assured that any rescheduled dates or potential loss of money will be rectified as swiftly and competently as possible. I gotta swiftly and competently rectify my ass right now. Thank you so much for your patience and compassion and I hope that you have a wonderful day.”
It’s also important to focus on the fact that this is a mental health crisis experienced by a human being. While fans might be disappointed that certain dates have been canceled because they love this LGBTQ+ artist, this is a much more serious matter about humanity, addiction, and mental health.
Katya is doing the right thing by taking a break and seeking help. We urge fans to be respectful of her privacy and needs during such a difficult time.
According to the touring scheduled displayed on Obsessed — a platform run by LGTBTQ+ touring/events company Five Senses Reeling — there were only four more dates in this current The Bald and the Beautiful with Trixie and Katya tour: Cincinnati on May 9, Indianapolis on May 10, Albuquerque on Sep. 5, and Sacramento on Sep. 7.
The official Instagram page for touring company Five Senses Reeling issued an official statement that reads:
“When it comes to our talent, their mental and physical well being always has been and will remain our first priority. We wish Katya the best and send her our unwavering love and support as she navigates this step in her health.
“We appreciate your grace as we work to reschedule shows and focus on supporting our talent and friend. In order to respect both Katya and Trixie’s privacy at this time we will not be responding to social media comments. If you have specific questions about our shows in your city, please feel free to email us at press@obsessedwith.co.”
We’re sending our love to Katya and those who are closest to her at this time.
If you or someone you knows is dealing with addiction, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service), or TTY: 1-800-487-4889. The hotline is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.