Toronto’s legendary drag performer Michelle Ross dies

Tributes and memories are pouring in for beloved drag icon Michelle Ross.

The Jamaican-born Canadian drag performer passed away Sunday according to social media posts. Her cause of death remains unknown.

The Toronto-based performer’s career spanned four decades, allowing her to grace the international stage as Diana Ross and other iconic divas.

Ross was a well-known advocate for the BIPOC and LGBTQS2 community, regularly participating in fundraisers to support services in Toronto.

“We bid adieu to a legend, a queen, an icon: Michelle Ross.” tweeted Church Street community centre, The 519. “Michelle, reigned the local drag scene. Known to exude kindness and warmth, she wowed folks at our Green Space Festival helping raise funds for our communities. Rest in power, Ms. Ross!”

We bid adieu to a legend, a queen, an icon: Michelle Ross.
A proud Jamaican-born Canadian, Michelle, reigned the local drag scene. Known to exude kindness and warmth, she wowed folks at our Green Space Festival helping raise funds for our communities. Rest in power, Ms. Ross! pic.twitter.com/kDCjNEJTpZ

— The 519 (@The519) March 29, 2021

The award-winning performer inspired many in Toronto’s drag community, including Drag Race Canada host and judge, Brooklyn Hytes, who wrote: “Wishing more than anything I could be sitting in Toronto at Woodys with all my sisters laughing and crying tonight. We will miss you Michelle”

Wishing more than anything I could be sitting in Toronto at Woodys with all my sisters laughing and crying tonight. We will miss you Michelle

— Brooke Lynn Hytes stream Queen of the North (@Bhytes1) March 29, 2021

“Michelle Ross always spread kindness, positivity and love” shared Sofonda, “A true legend and Icon of our community. This sad news came as a shock. Hoping for her close Friends and Family to have the strength and love in these trying times . Losing a loved one is very difficult. RIP Michelle. We Love you.”