Sasha Colby Postpones Stripped II Tour Amid Exhaustion

Sasha Colby, acclaimed performer and winner of season 15 of"RuPaul's Drag Race," has officially postponed the remaining nine dates of her highly anticipated Stripped II tour, citing exhaustion and the need to focus on her mental health. The announcement was made via Colby's personal Instagram account, where she shared a heartfelt message with her fans and the broader LGBTQ+ community, explaining the decision and reflecting on the difficulties of maintaining a rigorous performance schedule post-Drag Race victory .

Colby’s Stripped II tour, which began earlier this year, was set to continue with nine additional performances in major U.S. cities, including Boston. However, after completing the first 21 dates, Colby expressed that she was “exhausted” and that her “mind and heart are tired in ways I can't ignore anymore.” In her Instagram post, Colby stated, “This has been one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. Since winning Drag Race, I've been going nonstop: gig after gig, city after city, saying yes and trying to make the most of every opportunity” .

The message continued, emphasizing the importance of self-care: “I know how much these shows mean to so many people, and I am so grateful for all the love and support. But I need to listen to my body and my heart and take time to rest and heal” . Colby’s candid remarks have resonated with fans, many of whom have expressed understanding and solidarity across social media platforms.

Since being crowned the winner of"RuPaul's Drag Race" season 15, Sasha Colby has become a prominent figure in LGBTQ+ entertainment. Her win was celebrated as a milestone for transgender representation on mainstream television, and she has been lauded for her advocacy, artistry, and charisma .

However, the transition from reality television stardom to continuous touring and public appearances poses unique challenges. Drag performers, especially those achieving rapid fame, are often expected to maintain demanding schedules that include live performances, media interviews, brand collaborations, and community events. The emotional labor involved is compounded for LGBTQ+ artists, who frequently serve as role models and advocates for their communities .

Colby’s openness about exhaustion and the need for rest has sparked a broader conversation about artist wellness, particularly among LGBTQ+ entertainers. Advocacy organizations have noted the importance of mental health resources and support for artists navigating the pressures of public visibility and constant travel .

The postponement has elicited an outpouring of support from fans, fellow drag performers, and LGBTQ+ organizations. Many have praised Colby’s transparency and her willingness to prioritize her well-being, seeing her actions as setting an important precedent for others in the industry .

Within the LGBTQ+ community, conversations around mental health have gained increasing traction in recent years. Transgender people, in particular, face heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and burnout, often exacerbated by societal pressures and discrimination. Colby’s public statement has been interpreted as a powerful affirmation that self-care is not only valid but necessary, especially for those whose work involves advocacy and visibility .

Prominent voices in drag and queer entertainment have reiterated the need for systemic change, including more sustainable touring models, access to mental health care, and recognition of the emotional labor inherent to public performance. Organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD have highlighted Colby’s decision as a moment to reflect on industry practices and the collective responsibility to support artist wellness .

While fans may be disappointed by the postponement, Colby affirmed her commitment to returning to the stage when she is ready. “I promise to come back stronger and give you the show you deserve,” she wrote, adding that ticket holders will be offered the option of refunds or rescheduled dates once she is able to resume touring .

In the interim, Colby remains engaged with her audience through social media and digital platforms, sharing updates and continuing her advocacy work. Her willingness to speak candidly about exhaustion and mental health is seen as a model for transparency and resilience in the entertainment industry .

Colby’s announcement comes at a time when conversations around mental health, labor rights, and sustainability in entertainment are reaching new urgency. The drag profession, while celebrated for its artistry and cultural impact, often entails grueling schedules and emotional demands that are rarely acknowledged in mainstream discourse .

As more performers speak out about exhaustion and the need for support, there is hope that the industry will respond with greater resources, flexibility, and compassion. Colby’s postponement of the Stripped II tour is not only a personal decision but a moment for reflection and advocacy, inviting fans and industry leaders alike to consider the well-being of those who bring joy, representation, and inspiration to LGBTQ+ communities worldwide .