Drag legend Michelle DuBarry, who served as a judge on the first season of Canada's Drag Race and was once named the world's oldest performing drag queen, has died at the age of 94. The Imperial Court of Toronto, a not-for-profit service organisation, confirmed the news on its Instagram page, sharing a series of images of the star.
"It is with heavy hearts that The Imperial Court of Toronto announces the passing of Empress Michelle DuBarry," the post read. "A trailblazer, performer, and beloved icon, Michelle inspired countless people through talent, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity. Her warmth, wit, and extraordinary presence left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of seeing her perform or knowing her story. Her legacy will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the doors she helped open for others. Rest in peace, Michelle Dubarry. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten."
Dementia Battle and Retirement
No cause of death was revealed, but in 2022, after showing symptoms of dementia, DuBarry moved into a long-term care home. A sale of some of her drag outfits and jewellery was staged at The 519 in April that year. The star had stepped away from performing during the Covid lockdowns, which saw the shutdown of nearly all drag-related venues and events in 2020.
In a 2021 documentary by CBC Radio One's The Doc Project, DuBarry—whose real name was Russell Alldread—spoke about the impact of the pandemic on his drag career. "I loved being Michelle DuBarry, [but] Michelle isn't around anymore," Alldread said. "I'm not involved in the drag world that much. I miss the drag scene, that's for sure. It's just a part of me. It's just me."
Record-Breaking Career
DuBarry was awarded the title of the World's Oldest Performing Drag Queen by Guinness World Records in 2015, though the distinction was later disputed and awarded to a performer one year older in 2016. He began performing drag in 1961 but adopted the DuBarry persona in 1969 upon joining the Phase One drag troupe. The name was inspired by the 1943 film Du Barry Was a Lady, starring Gene Kelly and Lucille Ball.
Beyond his performances, DuBarry was known for his charity work, raising funds for organisations across the Greater Toronto Area. Tributes poured in from fans and fellow performers. "My sweet Michelle. First time I met her in the 90s when I was her dresser at a one-woman show she had at our local bar, and there wasn't an empty seat in the house. She spent the later part of her drag career raising money for charities around the GTA and had a wonderful heart. RIP Empress Michelle," one person recalled on Reddit.
Another fan wrote: "Oh man, I saw her in Toronto quite a few times and she was always so wonderful. May she rest peacefully!" A third added: "An absolute star. What a legacy she leaves behind. She will be missed."
