Who is Heklina, the late SF drag legend? 2023
Longtime drag performer Heklina, who came to stardom in the 1990s, was discovered dead in London. The theater has verified Heklina’s death, although the cause of death has not yet been identified.
Before co-opening the SoMa drag club Oasis, the legendary SF drag performer held the edgy and long-running drag performance Trannyshack.
This article will provide a glimpse into the life of Heklina, a legendary San Francisco drag icon whose body was discovered in London.
About Heklina
Heklina, born Stefan Grygelko, has long dominated the gay nightlife in San Francisco, performing at places such as The Stud and The EndUp.
Heklina gained to prominence in the 1990s following many gonzo performances alongside luminaries such as Jane Wieldlin and Margaret Cho. Heklina has been in several shows over the years, but her performance as Dorothy Zbornak in the annual re-creations of The Golden Girls is possibly her most recognizable.
Late in 2019, Heklina relocated to Palm Springs, but she continued to make regular appearances in San Francisco, such as on Daytime Realness.
Heklina death
Peaches Christ, also known as Joshua Grannell, is a fellow San Francisco drag superstar who co-starred with Heklina in the Soho Theatre production of Mommie Queerest. Granell tweeted on social media that when the San Francisco drag legend went to pick up Heklina, he discovered the San Francisco drag legend dead.
Grannell also stated, “I realize this is startling news, and I am beyond shocked, but I wanted to let people know what has occurred.” Heklina is not just my best friend, but also a respected community figure. I am a shambles.
