Shortly after tying for third place on Season 17 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, drag icon Lexi Love shared that she’s entered a 30-day rehab program.
On Saturday, Lexi posted on social media to address the “curious cats” out there who’d taken interest in her previously announced break from drag and the public eye. “I was brave enough to take my Mental, Physical and Emotional health serious for the first time ever. I am in rehab and will be gone for a while,” she wrote. “Yall better get ready for what’s coming!”
After Lexi’s posts, her friend and manager TJ Liedel told Entertainment Weekly more about her choice to enter rehab, including that her goal is complete sobriety and that she may enter another 30-day program after completing her current stay at a treatment facility in Texas.
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“Her family, friends, and fans all know the love and light that Lexi has. We know how difficult it is to face these things head on. We’re extremely proud of the courage she has to face publicly, and to be a representative for so many in the community,” Liedel told EW.
“Unfortunately, people demonize these things, but the only way we can get better about it is to be public, share stories, and actively work toward healthier, happier times,” he continued. “We appreciate the support of everyone. Know that Lexi appreciates everyone in their support, and she will be back soon. We Lexi Love you.”
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Lexi’s announcement of entering rehab came about two weeks after she shared that she’d be stepping back from drag and her newfound fame, though she didn’t go into detail of why at the time.
“I’m taking a step back to nurture my mental, physical, and emotional well-being,” Lexi wrote on social media. It’s time to transform my relationship with my inner saboteur — to understand it, disarm it, and step fully into my strength.”
“This journey isn’t one I can take alone. I know I’ll need help, guidance, and grace along the way — and I’m so grateful to have the love and support of this incredible community behind me,” she continued. “When I return, I’ll be ready to take on the world — bigger, better, and stronger than ever. And to those who doubted me — thank you for reminding me that resilience is a choice, and I choose to rise.”
Lexi’s choice to be open about her journey with rehab and sobriety continues a trend she set while on Drag Race: shedding light on the reality of substance abuse and destigmatizing getting treatment. For all the love Lexi’s sent her fans, we’re sending her back even more.
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