This is absolutely heartbreaking news from the world of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Lucian Piane, the music producer and composer who helped shape some of the franchise’s most memorable musical moments, has died at just 46 years old.
According to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records via Variety and others on Tuesday morning, Piane died on Monday after reportedly being struck by a car in Glendale, California. Such an awful situation…
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Piane worked on RuPaul’s Drag Race for its first eight seasons, composing music and creating the show’s beloved Rusical numbers. He also contributed to RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars and collaborated with RuPaul on several fan-favorite songs, including Cover Girl, Sissy That Walk, Jealous of My Boogie, Born Naked, Champion, and Main Event. His credits also included work on the soundtrack for the 2007 Hairspray film, which earned him a Grammy nomination.
Following news of his passing, World of Wonder, the production company behind Drag Race, shared a moving tribute on social media:
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Lucian Piane. Lucian left behind a legacy of truly beautiful music. May his struggles never dim the memories of a sweet man, a dear friend, and a master musician. Rest in peace, Lucian.”
Franchise judge and producer Michelle Visage also expressed her grief, writing:
“Such a beautiful soul, so talented… such a loss.”
Piane had reportedly struggled with substance abuse and mental health challenges in the years before his death, according to Variety.
Friends and fans had voiced concern online after he shared a series of troubling Instagram videos, with some pleading for him to seek help.
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Meanwhile, journalist Larry Flick, who described Piane as a friend, also shared a deeply personal tribute:
“Lucian was my friend. It wasn’t always easy. He was troubled, complicated, and filled with rage that he didn’t know how to manage. Like many, I tried to help until he made it impossible. Guilt right now is real. The way he left this life was tragic and brutal. But I pray rest and peace await him on the other side.”
Wow.
This is an incredibly sad loss for the Drag Race community and everyone touched by Piane’s music.
May he be remembered for the creativity he brought into the world, and may those who loved him find peace during this difficult time…
[Image via YouTube]