Stefan Grygelko, a pillar of the San Francisco drag community who went by the stage name Heklina, was discovered dead in London on Monday. Heklina was 54 years old.
On Monday morning, Heklina was discovered by Peaches Christ (fellow drag performer Joshua Grannell). The pair had been touring with their stage production “Mommie Queerest,” a parody of the 1981 cult film “Mommie Dearest,” which was set to play at the Soho Theatre for two weeks. The cause of death has not been released.
“I am shocked to inform you of this news. I’m in the midst of a real-life nightmare, so please forgive me if I don’t have all the answers right now. “I went to collect my dear friend Heklina, who is costarring with me in a Mommie Queerest show here, this morning in London, England, and found her dead,” Peaches Christ wrote in a social media statement. “Heklina is not only my best friend, but also a beloved community icon.” “I’m a shambles.”
— Peaches Christ (@PeachesChrist) April 3, 2023
In a statement, the Soho Theatre said, “Our thoughts are with Peaches, Mommie Queerest company, Heklina’s family, friends, and their wider community.”
The performer was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and moved to San Francisco after spending time in Iceland. Heklina was named after the volcano Hekla.
In 1996, Heklina established herself as a fixture in the San Francisco drag community by hosting the popular weekly series now known as “Mother,” which has hosted celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Charro. The establishment launched many local drag careers and has been a major source of creative inspiration in the community, including “RuPaul’s Drag Race: All-Stars” winner Alaska Thunderfuck.
In 2020, Alaska stated, “Heklina is an institution.” “The drag seedlings she has planted and watered over the years have grown into countless gardens and bouquets of drag excellence.” I continue to admire her work ethic, tenacity, and compassion. And her snitch.”
Heklina co-founded the San Francisco drag club Oasis in 2015. She’s also been a regular emcee and performer at the city’s Pride events and fairs. Heklina also appeared in the independent parody film “Baby Jane?” in 2010 and was a regular in the city’s popular show “Golden Girls Live.”
