Ahead of her planned Boston performance, Sasha Colby is hanging up her heels for some much needed rest.
The Season 15 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race announced on Sunday that she’s made “the incedibly difficult decision” to postpone the remaining nine shows of her Stripped II Tour of North America.
“This has been one of the hardest decisions l’ve ever had to make,” she started in a statement on Instagram. “Since winning Drag Race, l’ve been going nonstop: gig after gig, city after city, saying yes and trying to make the most of every opportunity that’s come my way. As a trans woman of color in this industry, l’ve pushed myself relentlessly, often feeling like I needed to prove that I belong here.
Noting that the tour has been “a dream come true” and “a labor of love,” she added: “But the truth is that I am exhausted. Twenty-one shows in five weeks took a much bigger toll on me than I expected, both physically and emotionally. My mind and heart are tired in ways I can’t ignore anymore. I’ve always tried to push through, but this time I need to listen to my body and spirit.
“With that, l’ve made the incredibly difficult decision to postpone the remaining nine shows of the tour,” Colby continued. “To everyone who bought a ticket, showed up, and supported me, please know how deeply sorry I am. This decision comes from a place of necessity, not desire. I never want to let anyone down.”
Colby added that refunds are being processed, “and I promise l’ll be back to make it up to you. But I need to take this time to rest, to recover, and to take care of my mental health.”
“My chosen family keeps reminding me that this isn’t about giving up; it’s about choosing myself for once. It’s hard to fully believe that right now, but deep down I know they’re right. I want to come back stronger, more grounded, and ready to give you the best version of me,” she concluded. “Thank you for your endless love, your compassion, and for holding space for me to be human. I’ll see you soon.”
Colby kicked off her Stripped II Tour on Sept. 26 at Seattle’s Moore Theatre, making her the first drag artist to headline a Live Nation tour.