Ballroom Icon, 'Paris is Burning' Star Carmen Xtravaganze Dead at 62

Carmen Xtravaganza – the openly transgender ballroom icon and sometime house mother of the House of Xtravaganza – has died at age 62, SocialLY reports.

An Aug. 4 Instagram post from the House of Xtravaganza announced Carmen's passing, and celebrated her life.

"Throughout the 1980s, Carmen reigned on the runways as one of the House of Xtravaganza's 'impossible beauties,' " the post read. "Her presence and talent left an indelible mark on the House Ballroom scene."

Carmen was known for her victories in the ballroom category "Realness of Face," a category that recognizes both physical beauty and inner qualities of personal magnetism.

The House of Xtravaganza post recalled that in 1988 Carmen "graced the cover of the Village Voice for an article by Donald Suggs titled 'Venus Envy: The Drag Balls of Harlem.'

"This moment was pivotal as the House Ballroom scene began gaining mainstream attention," the post went on to add. "Her contribution to the community and artistry will forever be remembered."

In 2006 Carmen was also featured in the documentary "How Do I Look," Wikipedia recounts, and though the entire House of Xtravaganze was inducted into the Ballroom Hall of Fame, several members were individually inducted as well, including Carmen, who was inducted in 1999.

The post also recalled the scene in the 1990 documentary "Paris is Burning" in which Carmen and another member of the house, Brooke Xtravaganza, discussed their transitions.

"Her openness and bravery helped pave the way for others, leaving an enduring legacy of acceptance and love," the post noted, going on at add: "Her dedication and mentorship endeared her to many, solidifying her status as an undeniable icon."