A former contestant from "RuPaul’s Drag Race" faces serious allegations of sexual assault, as detailed in an extensive report by Rolling Stone.
Darius Pierce, known by the stage name Shangela, stands accused by multiple men of sexual misconduct.
Drag Star Shangela, Once Invited To White House By Kamala Harris, Accused Of Multiple Sexual Assaultshttps://t.co/yId7uF7Lkx
— The Mix (@TellMeNow_) March 19, 2024
The report states that four individuals have come forward alleging that Pierce, legally named Chantaize Darius Jeremy Pierce, either sexually assaulted them or attempted sexual contact when they were unable to provide consent due to intoxication. Additionally, a fifth individual claims that Pierce made unwelcome advances despite rejection.
Pierce's attorney responded to Rolling Stone's article, dismissing the allegations as "false and unsupported by any evidence," as reported by Fox 11.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Pierce had not addressed the claims on social media as of Monday, March 18.
"This follows the settlement of a separate case filed by production assistant Daniel McGarrigle accusing Pierce of rape on the set of We’re Here. McGarrigle first filed the case last May, alleging that Pierce got him drunk and attempted to have anal sex with him. The lawsuit was originally reported in the Los Angeles Times. The case was settled in February 2024," Vulture reported.
His most recent social media post pertained to an appearance at the GLAAD awards, showcasing Pierce's significant influence with approximately 1.6 million followers on Instagram.
Pierce was also prominently featured as a headlining performer at the Outloud Music Festival in June 2023.
In June 2022, Pierce received a noteworthy invitation to the White House from Vice President Kamala Harris.
People magazine reported that Harris invited Pierce to speak in character as Shangela at a Pride Month event held at her residence, marking a historic occasion as the first time a vice president hosted such an event. Pierce expressed gratitude to Harris on Instagram for the invitation.
A viral video from 2019 further underscored Pierce's connection to Harris, showing Shangela teaching the vice president how to use a fan.
Rolling Stone's report indicates that the investigation into the sexual assault allegations against Pierce commenced in November 2022, shedding light on a serious legal and reputational challenge facing the former drag race contestant.
The allegations against Pierce highlight the importance of addressing issues of sexual misconduct within the entertainment industry and reveal concerns with yet another person connected to Harris. As the investigation unfolds, Pierce's response, legal proceedings, and public perception will undoubtedly shape the outcome of this troubling situation.
