Ballroom communities and LGBTQ+ enthusiasts around the world mourn the loss of Carmen Xtravaganza, a trailblazing figure and star of the iconic documentary “Paris Is Burning.” The news of Carmen’s passing at the age of 62 comes as a devastating blow to the community she has inspired throughout her remarkable life.
Carmen’s journey as a trans woman began at the age of 15, after she ran away from her home in Rota, Spain. Her path eventually led her to New York City in the late 70s, where she found her home in the vibrant Ballroom scene. This marked the beginning of her influential career as the renowned Carmen Xtravaganza.
Beyond her fame in the Ballroom community, Carmen’s talents extended to the modeling world, where she achieved success in Europe, working with prestigious agencies and walking the runway for renowned fashion shows. Despite facing hardships, Carmen’s spirit remained strong as she hustled to survive and embraced her identity with grace and resilience.
In 1990, Carmen achieved international recognition with her appearance in the critically acclaimed LGBTQ+ documentary, “Paris Is Burning.” In the film, Carmen exuded trans joy as she celebrated her identity alongside Brooke Xtravaganza on the beach. Her playful remark, “except that voice is still there,” has since become a memorable and frequently quoted line, resonating with viewers worldwide.
Tragically, Carmen had been battling Stage Four lung cancer before her untimely passing. In September 2022, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated by Mink Xtravaganza to support Carmen’s chemotherapy treatments, showcasing the love and support she received from her community. Carmen’s spirit and contributions to LGBTQ+ culture will be forever cherished as her legacy lives on through the memories and love she leaves behind.
As the news of her passing spread, social media platforms were flooded with heartfelt tributes from fans and figures within the Ballroom community. Carmen’s influence on the perception of trans beauty and her indomitable spirit touched countless lives, and she will be deeply missed but never forgotten.