Shangela, known from her stint on *RuPaul's Drag Race*, has found herself at center stage once again, but this time, it's not on a runway. She faces new allegations tied back after settling a prior case in 2024.
The latest accusation details
On February 24th, Eric Poff, who fans might recognize from *Vanjie: 24 Hours Of Love* and by his stage name Dakota Payne, filed a civil lawsuit against Shangela in New York's Supreme Court. Poff accuses Shangela, whose real name Darius Jeremy Pierce, claims she sexually assaulted him back in October 2017 during filming *Hurricane Bianca 2*.
Poff was working as a production assistant and alleges that after a night out drinking with Shangela in New York, he blacked out, believing his drink had been tampered with. When he came around, he claims he found himself being assaulted by both Shangela and another man, in Shangela's hotel room.
Shangela speaks out
Shangela isn't one backing down quietly. She's taken a strong stance against these fresh accusations, calling them baseless. In a candid Instagram post, she shared her hurt and disbelief, saying, "Being accused in such a terrible manner takes a toll. I've been told not say anything, and I try my hardest not enter this back-and-forth with those looking cash in or get a headline. I remind myself, 'It's not worth it.'"
The ripple effect on her life and career
It's clear these allegations have weighed heavily on Shangela. She opened up about how these claims have affected her career and personal life, impacting her character and her family. She noted, "They want paint a picture successful Black, gay drag queen as a danger. But I refuse let them win. I'll keep fighting with truth and patience, believing that truth prevails in end."
A look back: past allegations
This isn't Shangela's first brush with such accusations. In 2023, Daniel McGarrigle, another production assistant from her past, claimed Pierce had raped him. That charge was denied, and by January 2024, it was all settled. A month later, Rolling Stone's investigation highlighted five more allegations against Pierce, dating from 2012 and 2018. Yet, throughout, Shangela has remained firm in her defense.
Help and resources
It can't be overstated that sexual violence brings significant pain and trauma. Organizations like Rape Crisis England and Wales work tirelessly in aiding survivors and fighting this scourge. They offer resources and support through their website and via their helpline at 0808 802 9999. In Scotland, Rape Crisis Scotland can be reached at 08088 01 03 02.
For folks across United States, there's aid available through RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
As legal battles continue unfolding, Shangela remains unwavering in her denial, determined clear her name. Despite adversity, she holds out hope that, eventually, truth will surface and guide path forward.
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