Bandit of 'Drag Race Thailand, Has Died at Age 38
The "RuPaul's Drag Race" franchise has lost a star.
According to Entertainment Weekly, "Drag Race Thailand" season 2 contestant Bandit has passed away at age 38 on Tuesday in Thailand. The details surrounding Bandit's death are not immediately known, but fans began to share tributes in Bandit's honor on X, formerly known as Twitter.
"RIP Bandit 😔♥️ Have a save flight to heaven my queen It's unbelievable to me," wrote one social media user.
Another social media user and fellow drag queen wrote, "RIP Bandit. It was amazing to see you compete on Drag race Thailand, rest easy my love 🤍."
Bandit appeared in "Drag Race Thailand's" second season in January 2019 and was known as a skilled fashion designer. They ultimately placed fourth on the show behind winner Angele Anang.
"We're all completely lost because Bandit has been a light. He has taught me. I would not be the same person I am today without Bandit teaching me about fashion," said "Drag Race Thailand" cohost and "UK vs. the World" contestant Pangina Heals, speaking to EW about Bandit's death. "He's been such a visionary, such a giver. He's always telling other people, 'You can do this' or, 'Do that to be better,' in terms of making sure other people have their fashion game on. He was such a funny person, such charisma, such magnetism, and without him, all of us don't know what to do."
Pangina added that she wants Bandit to be remembered as a "professional person."
"Every single person who knows about the news today has been unable to function. I want her to know that she's so loved, and we are still in shock," she said.
Additionally, Bandit's longtime friend and fellow Drag Race contestant, Kana Warrior, shared a statement online.
"I respect everything, respect you and your decision," Kana wrote on Instagram in Thai. "Miss you so much."
RIP, Bandit.