A legendary drag queen and actor who rose to fame in the 1980s with their outrageous style, wit, and charisma, starring in films like "Pink Flamingos" and "Female Trouble".
Divine, born Harris Glenn Milstead, was an American actor, singer, and drag queen who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his outrageous performances, electrifying stage presence, and unapologetic individuality, Divine became a cult icon, celebrated for his bold and unconventional approach to art.
Born on October 19, 1945, in Baltimore, Maryland, Divine grew up in a conservative middle-class family. Despite the conventional upbringing, he developed an early interest in drag, which was further fueled by his work as a women's hairdresser. It was during this time that he befriended independent filmmaker John Waters, who would later become his collaborator and mentor.
Divine's association with Waters led to his involvement in the filmmaker's acting troupe, the Dreamlanders. He adopted female roles for their experimental short films, including Roman Candles (1966), Eat Your Makeup (1968), and The Diane Linkletter Story (1969). His performances in these films earned him recognition within the countercultural scene.
Divine's breakthrough role came with Waters' 1972 film Pink Flamingos, which became a midnight movie circuit hit and established him as a cult icon in the American counterculture. He went on to star in several more of Waters' films, including Female Trouble (1974), Polyester (1981), and Hairspray (1988), the latter of which marked his transition into mainstream cinema and earned him an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Supporting Male.
In addition to his film work, Divine explored the world of theater, appearing in avant-garde performances with the San Francisco drag collective, The Cockettes. He also starred in Tom Eyen's play Women Behind Bars and its sequel, The Neon Woman. Divine's music career saw him release several albums, including (1984) and The Story So Far (1986), which showcased his unique blend of camp, humor, and irreverence.
Divine's fearless approach to art and his unwavering commitment to his vision have inspired generations of artists, performers, and LGBTQ+ individuals. He continues to be celebrated for his trailblazing spirit, his ability to challenge social norms, and his unapologetic individuality. Divine's legacy extends beyond his own work, influencing a wide range of artistic expressions, from music and film to fashion and theater.
Through his life and work, Divine embodied the spirit of rebellion, challenging conventions and pushing boundaries with every performance, every role, and every gesture. He remains an icon, a testament to the power of creativity, individuality, and unbridled self-expression.
Divine's untimely death on March 7, 1988, at the age of 42, was met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the artistic community. Today, he remains an enduring symbol of creativity, individuality, and self-expression, inspiring new generations of artists, performers, and LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their true selves.
80 Years Old
A pioneer of underground filmmaking, creating provocative and irreverent movies that blend camp, comedy, and social commentary, often featuring outsiders and misfits.
57 Years Old
American actress, producer, and talk show host known for her iconic 90s tabloid talk show and starring roles in films like "Hairspray" and "Serial Mom".
94 Years Old
A Hollywood heartthrob of the 1950s and 60s, known for his chiseled good looks and charming on-screen presence in movies and music.
