Entering Darcelle, early 1970s
Courtesy of Kimberlee Van Patten
Portland’s most famous drag queen, Darcelle, has died of natural causes at the age of 92.
“We ask for privacy and patience as everyone processes and grieves in their own way and at their own pace. Details of a public memorial service will be announced once confirmed. All shows at the Darcelle XV Showplace will continue as planned per Darcelle’s wishes. Please join us in celebrating their legacy and memory. Thank you in advance for your continued support,” confirmed the staff of Darcelle XV Showplace, the company they founded more than half a century ago, on social media on Thursday.
Related: Darcelle XV: Long before the Stonewall Riots changed the gay rights movement, Portland had a vibrant drag queen community.
Darcelle, also known as Walter W. Cole Sr., was the highest performing female impersonator in the United States. She was also a longtime business owner in Old Town Portland, whose advocacy for gay rights began at a time when so-called homosexual acts were illegal and gays and lesbians faced legalized discrimination. As the push for LGBTQ rights gained momentum, Darcelle became an “ambassador” for the straight community and was known for decades for her community service.
Last fall, she donned her bold blonde wig and glitter-covered dress to revive the La Femme Magnifique pageant, which had been put on hold for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Related: As drag queens prepare to ring in 2023, Portland resident Darcelle reflects on decades of artistry
Up until the pandemic, Darcelle XV Showplace had never closed its doors before, she told OPB last year.
“We’ve had some tough times. … But do you know what was so wonderful? My staff stayed with me and when we reopened they were all there. I love her.”
Over a period of more than a year, the Oregon Experience crews documented Darcelle at a variety of public and private events. They captured behind-the-scenes moments, collecting hundreds of images and film clips spanning decades. Check out the resulting insider’s look at the iconic Portlander: