Divine

Biography

Divine (October 19, 1945 – March 7, 1988), born Harris Glenn Milstead, was a renowned American actor, singer, and drag queen. Celebrated by People magazine as the “Drag Queen of the Century,” Divine became famous for portraying female characters in both films and theatrical productions, often donning women’s attire for musical performances. However, he regarded himself primarily as a character actor, taking on male roles in various later films.

Divine is best known for his collaboration with independent filmmaker John Waters, starring in ten of his films, often in prominent roles. Alongside his acting career, he achieved significant success as a disco singer in the 1980s, earning the title of "the most successful and in-demand disco performer in the world" at one point.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, into an affluent conservative family, Divine connected with Waters and the Dreamlanders acting troupe in the mid-1960s, featuring in early cult classics like Mondo Trasho, Multiple Maniacs, Pink Flamingos, and Female Trouble. In the 1970s, he expanded into theater, appearing in productions such as Women Behind Bars and The Neon Woman while continuing to star in films like Polyester, Lust in the Dust, and Hairspray.

The New York Times noted that while Divine's performances were undeniably unconventional, those who looked beyond the eccentricity discovered a true talent, marked by impeccable comic timing and an extraordinary knack for slapstick. Since his passing, Divine remains an iconic figure, especially within the LGBT community.