James “Gypsy” Haake, legendary drag entertainer and performer, dead at 94

(PALM SPRINGS, CA) (KESQ) - James “Gypsy” Haake, a pioneering figure in the world of drag entertainment and one of the oldest living drag queens of his generation, has died at the age of 94.

According to a post on his Facebook page, Haake was surrounded by loving family and friends, at his Los Angeles home when he passed. Haake’s death was announced September 13. Details regarding a celebration of his remarkable life are expected to be announced in the coming days.

For decades, Haake was a beloved and influential presence in the Southern California entertainment community, with a career that stretched from legendary drag venues to major stages and special events. His life and career helped establish drag entertainment as a theatrical art form long before it entered the mainstream.

Although Los Angeles was central to Haake’s career and public life, he also maintained a strong connection to Palm Springs, performing at Oscars regularly. The city of Palm Springs is listed as his primary home on his Facebook page.

Haake was widely recognized as one of the oldest living drag queens in the world. In 2023, that remarkable history was celebrated when he was selected as a Grand Marshal of the Pride Parade. Haake was honored with his own star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars back in 2015.

For many Los Angeles audiences, Haake’s name was synonymous with the legendary La Cage shows of Beverly Hills.

From 1981 through 1993, Haake served as the original Master of Ceremonies for La Cage Aux Folles in Beverly Hills before the production was franchised as An Evening at La Cage, eventually expanding to venues in Atlantic City, Las Vegas and other locations around the world. Haake was featured in a number of films, tv shows and music videos through out his extended career.