‘Her Light Will Shine On’: Michigan Trans Performer Golden O'Hara-Polo Dies at 29
Michigan's LGBTQ+ community remembers performer's joy, advocacy and authenticity
Trans woman and drag artist Golden O'Hara-Polo, whose performances brought joy and inspiration to Southeast Michigan's LGBTQ+ community, died April 4. She was 29.
O'Hara-Polo's final appearance was at Five15 in Royal Oak during a Transform fundraiser benefiting the Michigan ACLU, a cause she championed throughout her career.
Five15 announced her death in a statement on social media:
"It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear friend, community advocate, and fierce talent, Golden O'Hara. Golden was a guiding light as a performer, as a legal mind, and as someone who deeply believed in the power of unity, truth, and justice,” the post read. “Fittingly, her final performance was at FIVE15, during last week's Transform fundraiser for the Michigan ACLU — a cause she was passionately devoted to.”
“In what would be our last conversation, Golden offered inspiration, insight and encouragement that helped spark the direction of something new — something we believe will bring healing and joy to a community in need,” the post continued. “Her legacy will live on in that spark, and in all of us who carry her light forward. Her voice, both onstage and off, will be missed deeply. But her spirit lives on in the work we will continue — louder, prouder, and with purpose. Rest in power, Golden. Your final gift will unite and inspire a community that needed you more than we even knew."
Those who knew O'Hara-Polo are speaking out on social media to comment on her generosity of spirit, her dedication to community causes and her ability to transform a routine drag show into something magical. She became known not only for her dazzling performances but for the genuine connections she made with audiences and fellow performers alike.
Carl Wylie, general manager of Five15, wrote on Facebook, "I'm completely speechless. R.I.P my dear sister. Golden O'hara-Polo is one of the most genuine people I've ever met. She always had encouraging words and was truly a joy to work with. My heart goes out to her family as I can only imagine the hurt they are experiencing. Fly high beautiful. Thank you for being a beacon of light in many lives."
Michigan Drag Brunch, where O'Hara-Polo also performed, posted, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Golden O'Hara-Polo; a member of our family who exuded beauty, positivity, and kindness. She will be forever missed, but never forgotten. We share our deepest condolences and sympathy to her family, and all of those whose lives she touched."
Michigan Drag Awards posted to Facebook, "From lake to lake, the Michigan drag community is grieving the loss of a beloved entertainer who touched so many. Your presence, your artistry, and your spirit will forever be etched in our hearts."
Over on Five15's Instagram, one follower commented that they were "absolutely heartbroken. I'm so grateful to have seen her perform and her amazing talent. Rest in peace queen." Another wrote: "Rest in power! So much love brought to the community!"
In early 2024, O'Hara-Polo came out as transgender on Instagram. "Life is short, don't love for anyone else but yourself," she wrote. "You deserve everything that you desire in this world. If you are reading this, this is your sign to jump into the abyss and make it to the other side."
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