She won worldwide fame for being the oldest working drag queen but Portland’s Darcelle XV was much much more than an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records.Darcelle was an internationally renowned drag legend as well as being a pioneer for increasing LGBTQ+ visibility in the world. And, we’re not going to say it’s sad that Darcelle has made her final sashay off her mortal stage yesterday at the age of 92; after all, she had a long and fantastic life. While we’re going to miss her physical presence in the world, her memory and legacy will live on.
Darcelle’s family made this announcement on Thursday, March 23, 2023:
The family of Darcelle XV along with her cast and crew are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Darcelle (Walter W. Cole, Sr.) has died at age 92 from natural causes. 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 will be announced as soon as they are confirmed. All shows at Darcelle XV Showplace will go on as scheduled per Darcelle’s wishes. Please join us and celebrate her legacy and memory, thank you in advance for your continued support.
Today, Portland Oregon, the Pacific Northwest and fans around the world remember Darcelle XV not only as a drag legend but as a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ equality, raising funds for charities and non-profits, and as an early gay business owner of their own night club, Darcelle XV Showplace in the heart of Portland’s Old Town neighborhood. Actually, Darcelle’s male alter ego, Walter W. Cole, was able to parlay G.I. loans, a benefit he earned as a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces to buy the bar in 1967.
Over 50 years later, Darcelle’s Showplace is still a vibrant part of Portland’s LGBTQ+ scene…and has broken a few records of its own as the West Coast’s longest running drag show.
Darcelle is such a Portland icon, they named a BEER after her!
Legendary.
So, obviously, a HUGE toast to the one and only Walter W. Cole/Darcelle XV. A true trail blazer and a class act. Salud.
About the Author: Michael Strangeways
