David Raven, who gained fame as the renowned drag performer Maisie Trollette, has died at the age of 91 in Brighton, England. Confirmed by his friend Scott St. Martyn, Raven had been residing in a nursing home before his passing.
Raven, dazzling audiences for over fifty years, was distinguished by his blonde wig, elaborate makeup, and glimmering sequined gowns. His performances often featured classic show tunes and cheeky humor, establishing him as a beloved figure in the British drag community. He was a fixture at events such as the Brighton and Hove Pride celebration and mentored many younger drag artists during his career.
Coming out as gay in his twenties, Raven navigated a challenging era in Britain when homosexuality was still criminalized—legal reforms only occurred in 1967. He embraced drag at a time when the art form surged in popularity thanks to contemporaries like Danny La Rue, whom he deeply admired. Initially identifying as a “pantomime dame,” he worked tirelessly to earn professional recognition, as noted by Scott St. Martyn, who formed a friendship with Raven in the 1980s.
Raven's ascent to stardom was propelled in the 1960s as part of the drag duo known as the Trollettes, alongside Jimmy Court, known as Jimmy Trollette. His contribution to the performing arts has left an indelible mark on the drag industry, inspiring both past and future generations of performers.
