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How did Heklina die? San Francisco drag queen known as a 'powerhouse' found dead

Heklina's death was announced on social media by fellow drag queen and performing partner Peaches Christ

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA: A well-known San Francisco drag queen, Heklina, was found dead in London on Monday, April 3. Also known as actor Stefan Grygelko, she was in London to perform in a touring show. Her death was announced on social media by fellow drag queen and performing partner, Joshua Grannell aka Peaches Christ. The cause of Heklina's death has not been revealed.

"I am shocked and horrified to bring this news to you. I am living in a real-life nightmare so forgive me if I don’t have all the answers just now. This morning, in London, England I went to collect my dear friend Heklina, who is costarring with me in a Mommie Queerest show here, and found her dead. I do not know the cause of death yet. I know this is shocking news and I am beyond stunned, but I wanted to let folks know what has happened. Heklina is not just my best friend, but a beloved icon of our community. I am a mess. Given this crisis, please do not try to contact me as I am utterly heartbroken, stunned, and focusing on what needs to get done next. I shall be in touch," Grannell wrote on Facebook. 

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'A drag legend, brilliant performer'

Soho Theatre, where the production of 'Mommie Queerest' was being held, wrote on Twitter, "Soho Theatre, @HOME_mcr and Tim Whitehead are in shock and incredibly saddened with news of Heklina's passing. Our thoughts are with Peaches, Mommie Queerest company, Heklina's family, friends + their wider community. Together with HOME we’ll be in contact with audiences tomorrow".

Supervisor Matt Haney wrote, "So shocking and sad to hear about the loss of Heklina, a drag legend, brilliant performer and trailblazing community icon. My condolences and love goes out to all of Heklina's friends, family, and loved ones, and the entire LGBTQ and drag communities."

Senator Scott Wiener also paid tribute to Hekline, writing on Twitter, "This is devastating. @Heklina was a true talent & stand-up person. I first saw Heklina perform at the Stud as a young gay guy in the 1990s. I then had the honor of working with her to identify a space for Oasis. Her imprint on San Francisco was deep. Rest in peace, my friend."

Who was Heklina?

Heklina performed in various stage productions and also appeared as Dorothy Zbornak in the San Francisco drag production of 'The Golden Girls'. She was best known as one of the co-founders of 'Trannyshack,' the long-running drag show that began in the mid-'90s. 

Heklina had recently been part of the group of owners that relaunched nightclub and theater, Oasis, located in San Francisco's SoMa District. It opened in 2014. Heklina was also seen as host and emcee for several community events.

'Heklina was such a powerhouse'

Many remembered Heklina on social media, with one user writing on Facebook, "This is absolutely shocking and very sad news for everyone how knew her so sad a trailblazer and icon". "I am so so sorry to hear that Heklina has gone - and that you made the discovery. I hope you have plenty of support as you navigate today and the days that come. Heklina was such a powerhouse," one user said, addressing Grannell, while another wrote, "I'm so, so very sorry and sad to read this. Her humor gave so many of us so much joy. Sending you all so much love and support." "I am utterly stunned! My condolences to all her friends and family, and everyone who loved her," said one user.

"She was a treasure. Rest in power to a goddess," one user said on Twitter. Another wrote, "Just heard the devastating news RIP to a true drag legend."

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