Tue. October 2, 2012
New York, NY -
Antoine Ashley, known as Sahara Davenport, a drag performer on the second season of the TV show RuPaul's Drag Race, has died. Ashley was just 27. The cause and circumstances of his death are unknown at this time.
"Logo is profoundly saddened by the passing of Antoine Ashley who fans around the world knew and loved as Sahara Davenport. He was an amazing artist and entertainer who'll be deeply missed by his Logo family. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, especially his boyfriend Karl, in their time of need," Logo stated in a Facebook posting this morning.
RuPaul also posted on Facebook: "I am shocked & heartbroken over Sahara Davenport. It never occurred to me that we'd ever lose one of my girls. I see them as immortal."
His page went on to say "Our hearts and prayers go out to Sahara Davenport's family, especially Manila Luzon. Antoine will be deeply missed."
Born December 17, 1984 in Dallas, TX, Davenport began his drag career while attending Southern Methodist University. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in classical dance. He moved to New York City, where he began performing regularly at many gay bars and nightclubs throughout the city. Davenport appeared on television on ABC's "One Life to Live" and also on the A&E network. He also appeared in music videos.
Ashley is survived by his boyfriend Karl Westerberg, who also was on Drag Race third season as Manila Luzon.
Update: RuPaul's Sahara Davenport died of heart failure
Related: Sahara Davenport's greatest 'RuPaul's Drag Race' moments
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