RuPaul has said that he has been left "heartbroken" following the death of Chi Chi DeVayne.

The season eight alumnus passed away today at the age of 34 after battling kidney failure and pneumonia over the last few months.

"I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Chi Chi DeVayne," RuPaul said in a statement on Twitter. "I am so grateful that we got to experience her kind and beautiful soul.

"She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. May her generous and loving spirit shine down on us all.

"On behalf of VH1, World of Wonder and the cast and crew of RuPaul's Drag Race, I extend my deepest sympathy - from our family to hers."

Chi Chi's final social media post came from her hospital bed on Saturday when she asked fans: "Keep me in your prayers."