What happened
Misua, a drag queen who was slated to appear on the fourth season of Drag Race: Philippines, has died at 27, according to production company World of Wonder.
In a statement posted on social media on April 2, the company said, “We are heartbroken to share that Misua, a talented Queen set to appear on season four of Drag Race Philippines passed away in her sleep the morning of April 2.”
World of Wonder added, “She brought light, artistry, and joy to those around her, and she will be deeply missed.”
The company also confirmed that filming on the season has been paused. The cast had not yet been publicly announced, which is a small mercy in a situation that clearly needed none of the usual entertainment-industry chaos.
Who Misua was
Misua was born Jayson Elvie Ty. World of Wonder said it was in contact with her family and shared that its thoughts were with those closest to her.
“Our thoughts,” the statement said of the performer, “are with her family, friends, and all who loved her.”
According to Variety, Misua’s family also posted a tribute on Facebook. They wrote:
“Jayson was our dearly loved son, brother, friend, mentor, and most of all, Jayson is a star. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and close friends.”
No cause of death has been released.
Her background and drag persona
Misua’s Drag Race bio, obtained by Variety, said she worked as a graphic designer and had been performing drag for eight years.
The bio described her as someone who created nearly every part of her drag herself, including her outfits, hair, nails, props, and visual content. In other words, she was not just performing a look. She was building the whole thing.
“She is known,” the bio reads, “for creating nearly every aspect of her drag herself, from her outfits, hair, and nails to props and visual content, reflecting her extraordinary creativity and eye for detail.”
It also said Misua drew strength from community and from being around other artists who shared her ambition and love of creative growth. Her drag name, the bio noted, came from her grandfather’s comfort food, which gives the whole thing a personal touch that is easy to miss in a field where image often gets more attention than meaning.
Her application described her style as fashion-driven and rooted in self-expression. It said she was “known for her striking visuals, fashion-forward perspective, and magnetic presence” and that she saw herself as “both a creative force and a star.”
The same bio added that her goal was to inspire others to work for what they want and to keep their dreams alive.
Reactions from the Drag Race family
News of Misua’s death prompted tributes from Drag Race alumni, other performers, and fans.
Michelle Visage commented on World of Wonder’s post, writing, “Sending so much love.”
Drag Race Down Under alum Hannah Conda also reacted, saying, “Absolutely heartbreaking! My thoughts are with my Filo family. I love you all and sending my love! She was an absolute star!”
One fan asked that producers not edit Misua out of the episodes that were already filmed, writing, “This is her dream and we need to honor her artistry and love for drag.”
