Maddöx Madison, the New York City nightlife staple and makeup artist who inspired the drag community with conceptual high-fashion makeup looks, has died in New York City after a two-month battle with skin cancer.
The news was confirmed on Facebook this morning by New York City drag fixture and personal friend Sherry Vine:
Maddox first found fame in the New York City nightlife scene in 2007 as ItsCMaddox, an ambitious artist who developed his makeup skills by creating Maddöx Madison, his androgynous high-drag alter-ego, a figure recognized for her attention to detail and dedication to her craft.
Despite undergoing chemotherapy since early April, Maddox documented the changes in his life on his original YouTube channel, CMaddoxBiitch (a hat tip to the catchphrase he was known by), and continued interacting with fans of Maddöx Madison on YouTube.
He posted his most recent update two days ago, titled “Minor Set Backs“.
Two weeks ago, several NYC nightlife impresarios banded together to create a gofundme page to assist in raising funds to help with medical costs. “As we all know, Maddox has a will and heart of gold,” the page says.
Today, close friends Bianca Del Rio and entertainer Logan Hardcore shared their condolences on Twitter:
REST IN PEACE. @itscmaddox #love #owlsonly http://t.co/SpiMGMNxtW
— Bianca Del Rio (@TheBiancaDelRio) June 19, 2014
"Heaven couldn't wait for you, now go on go home" pic.twitter.com/MRfLjkFB9T
— Logan Hardcore (@loganxhardcore) June 19, 2014
In a heartbreaking video posted on May 13 titled “Life Is Happening“, Maddox offered the following words:
I’m here to let my pups, friends, and family who I haven’t spoken to know, that I do have skin cancer. But I’m going to fight, and I’m going to survive. I’m not going to die here. I’m going to walk out of here and be stronger than I’ve ever been before. Thank you guys for all your support, your love, and encouraging words. And as soon as I’m better, I’m going to be back in full force. This will not stop me. I will not let this stop me. In times like these, it is great to have family around, friends around, and keep your spirits up. So if you’re going through anything, find that support…
Thank you for your love and support.
Rest in peace, Maddox.
Stache99
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Good warning to all you sun bunnies. I wonder how long he had it before he finally did something about it. 2 months is pretty quick.
He sounds like he was an amazing guy though. Very sad. RIP.
Cam
Wow, 2 months,so fast, That is so sad.
StephK
Very sad. I hope readers here learn that no matter one’s complexion, skin cancer doesn’t just hit those with light eyes & fair skin. It is an equal opportunity killer. Please make an appointment with a dermatologist, and advise your friends to do the same.
Stache99
I’d say the reason he died though was not having access to a doctor in time. He put it off because it’s expensive out of pocket. This should also hit home for all the still uninsured.
jayj150
Malloy, Carrera and their fans must be celebrating. Another evil Drag Queen down.
edwardnvirginia
IF the queers sending condolences .. and the queers who are no doubt bitchily jockeying for status with the vacancy in ‘the scene’ … would ALSO find out HOW TO GET TO WORK to help expand access to health care in queer communities, people of color communities, and poor communities – particularly in states without Medicaid expansion … perhaps a good thing – other than good memories – would come from a sad, tragic death.
Ya think?
FLOGGERDADNYC
was it all aggravated by the use of heavy make up layering? I will miss her and her cute tweaks here and there! we pups wave our make up palettes in your memory!
westsideed
I was so afraid this was going to happen and hoping against hope it wouldn’t. RIP, CMaddoxBitch, You are gone much too soon and will be sorely missed.
ingyaom
Skin cancer is rarely fatal. I wonder if it was melanoma.