SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) – Multiple sources have confirmed to ABC7 News that longtime drag performer Heklina has died.
Heklina, also known as Stefan Grygelko, has been a fixture on the drag scene since the 1990s and co-founded SoMa’s drag club Oasis.
“We are shocked and devastated to learn of Heklina’s death today,” the nightclub wrote in a tweet.
Colleague Peaches Christ, who was announced on Twitter, died in London, where the two were starring in a production of her drag spoof Mommie Queerest.
Friend “Peaches Christ” wrote on Twitter; “I am shocked and appalled to bring you this news. I’m living in a real nightmare,” she wrote.
VIDEO: Legendary drag queen Heklina closes the show in San Francisco
Legendary drag queen Heklina closes the show in San Francisco
“This morning I went to London, England to pick up my dear friend Heklina, who is co-starring with me here on the ‘Mommie Dearest’ show, and found her dead,” she continued. “Heklina is not only my best friend, but a beloved icon of our community.”
Disbelief reigned supreme at the Oasis nightclub in San Francisco.
Dozens gathered there on Monday afternoon to mourn the loss of Heklina.
The local star was known for things like the annual Golden Girls Live show, which was promoted on ABC7 back in November.
“It started 17 years ago in the front drawing room of a friend’s Victorian house in the Western Addition and it’s slowly grown and grown and grown and now it’s so huge, you know folks — everyone’s coming out,” Heklina said.
VIDEO: Drag show ‘Golden Girls’ draws crowds in San Francisco
Drag show Golden Girls draws crowds in San Francisco
Heklina’s career in San Francisco spanned decades, and the performer has long been one of the faces of the city’s drag scene.
But Heklina’s reach extends well beyond a single career.
The artist is credited with helping revolutionize drag shows, not just here in the Bay Area but around the world.
“Heklina brought a drag style to the ’90s that wasn’t really on display here. We had typical drag, but she brought the performance art aspect to it,” said Holotta Tymes, a friend of Heklina.
As news of Heklina’s death spreads, memorials and tributes like one at the Castro Theater are popping up across San Francisco.
People gathered at Manny’s in the city’s Mission District for a pre-scheduled event to discuss anti-drag and transgender legislation in the United States
There, the organizers took the time to honor Heklina’s legacy.
“Heklina has done a lot of stuff everywhere, Palm Springs, she was in London just now. Simply everywhere. She was super active,” said drag performer Juanita MORE!
As the cause of Heklina’s death is investigated, friends say her memories will live on forever.
“This is a perfect example of how the drag community and a drag queen can change lives,” said D’Arcy Drollinger.
The Soho Theater posted a tweet that read: “Shocked and incredibly saddened by the news of Heklina’s death. Our thoughts are with Peaches, Mommie Queerest Company, Heklina’s family, friends and their wider community.”
“I am absolutely devastated. Heklina was an icon in every sense of the word – funny, caring, outrageous and brave. I first saw Heklina perform when I was a young gay man in the 1990’s, new to San Francisco. I met her and helped her find a place for Oasis. Rarely have I worked with someone so fierce, creative and committed,” State Senator Scott Wiener wrote in a statement.
San Francisco Supervisor Matt Haney wrote in a tweet:
“So shocking and sad to hear about the loss of Heklina, a drag legend, brilliant performer and pioneering community icon. My condolences and love go out to all of Heklina’s friends, family and loved ones, as well as the entire LGBTQ and drag community. “
SF Pride also released the following statement:
Heklina, aka Stefan Grygelko, San Francisco’s cherished local nightlife icon, club owner and legendary drag performer, has reportedly passed away while on tour in London.
Nguyen Pham, CEO of San Francisco Pride, speaks for the community when he says this is completely heartbreaking and will remain front and center in the queer community for some time.
“Personally, I am honored and grateful to have worked directly with Heklina and to have participated in their spectacular, memorable productions numerous times over the years, serving countless community members and allies for many generations. She was unstoppable and a champion like no other.”
The cause of death is under investigation.