Lucian Piane, music producer on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” has died. He was 46 years old.
According to Los Angeles County medical examiner records, Piane died Monday after being struck by a car in Glendale, California.
Piane worked on the main show “Drag Race” from seasons 1 to 8 and composed the music and Russian numbers during this period. He also worked on “Drag Race: All Stars”. Additionally, Piane also collaborated with RuPaul and wrote some of the entertainer’s biggest songs, including “Cover Girl,” “Sissy That Walk,” “Jealous of My Boogie,” “Born Naked,” “Champion” and “Main Event.”
In a social media post, World of Wonder, the production company behind “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” wrote: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Lucian Piane. Lucian left behind a truly magnificent legacy of music. May his struggles never cloud the memories of a gentle man, a dear friend and a master musician. Rest in peace, Lucian.”
Michelle Visage, producer and judge for the franchise, shared, “Such a beautiful, talented soul…such a loss.”
He also earned a Grammy nomination for his work on the soundtrack to the 2007 film “Hairspray.”
Before his death, Piane struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues. Fans and friends have expressed concern about Piane online after he posted a series of alarming videos on Instagram. Many asked him to “get sober and stay sober” and wrote, “This is so sad to see. Lucian, please get help.”
Journalist Larry Flick wrote a tribute to Piane, writing: “Lucian was my friend. It wasn’t always easy. He was troubled, complicated and filled with rage that he didn’t know how to deal with. Like many, I tried to help until he made it impossible. The guilt in this moment is real. The way he left this life was tragic and brutal. But I pray that rest and peace await him on the other side.”
Piane was born on October 4 in Kansas City, Missouri.
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