Maxi Shield, a beloved drag artist recognized for her participation in 'RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under,' has died at the age of 51, as reported by TMZ. The news of her death comes after she publicly revealed her battle with throat cancer the previous autumn. Details surrounding the exact timing of her death and the cause have not been disclosed to the public.

The announcement of Shield's passing was made by a close friend and fellow drag artist, Vanity, via Instagram, expressing sorrow over the loss of a remarkable icon and beloved sister. Vanity reflected on their 30-year friendship, sharing gratitude for the moments they shared and emphasizing the importance of chosen family within the drag community. This heartfelt tribute highlights the deep connections formed in the world of drag performance.

'RuPaul's Drag Race,' a long-running and award-winning reality competition series, features drag artists competing for recognition and has garnered critical acclaim, including an Emmy for outstanding reality program. In Finland, the show airs under the title 'Huippu-drag queen haussa', contributing to a growing appreciation for drag culture and its artists, such as Maxi Shield, who have made significant impacts both locally and internationally.