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[CULTURE] · United States · 21 sources

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Lucian Piane, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ producer, dies at 46

Lucian Piane, a prominent music producer, composer, and former guest judge for ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’, has died at age 46. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Piane died on Monday, October 12, after being struck by a vehicle in Glendale, California. The death was officially ruled an accident caused by blunt trauma.

Piane was a central figure in the early musical identity of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’, contributing to seasons 1 through 8. He co-wrote several of RuPaul’s most iconic tracks, including ‘Cover Girl’ and ‘Sissy That Walk’. His professional achievements also included a Grammy nomination for his work on the ‘Hairspray’ film soundtrack.

The tragedy follows a difficult weekend for the musician, who had two separate encounters with the Glendale Police Department. He was reportedly cited on Saturday for being under the influence of a controlled substance and was arrested again on Sunday for an alleged assault on an officer or emergency personnel. He was scheduled to appear in court on the day of his death.

In the days preceding the accident, Piane had posted a series of concerning videos on Instagram that sparked worry among fans regarding his mental health and living situation. World of Wonder, the production company behind the drag competition, released a statement mourning his passing, describing him as a ‘master musician’ who left behind a ‘legacy of truly beautiful music’.

Entities

Glendale · Glendale Fire Department · Glendale Police Department · Los Angeles County Medical Examiner · Lucian Piane · Michelle Visage · RuPaul · RuPaul's Drag Race · RuPaul’s Drag Race · World of Wonder

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