The Filipino drag community and the production team behind Drag Race Philippines were rocked when one of the season four contestants, known on stage as Misua, was reported to have passed away in her sleep on April 2. Producers announced that filming, which had only just begun, would be halted so the cast and crew could receive immediate care and support. The news was shared publicly by the show’s production company, World of Wonder, which expressed heartbreak and said it was in contact with the performer’s family.
Misua performed under the legal name Jason Elvie Ty and was 27 years old. She was well known in the local scene as a member of the Haus of LaFeya and a regular at venues such as the Rampa Drag Club. Family members released a short tribute describing Jayson as a beloved son, sibling, friend and mentor, calling him a “star” who will be deeply missed. In response, peers and members of the broader Drag Race family posted condolences online; prominent figures in the franchise publicly sent love and grief.
What happened on set
Production on season four had only recently started when the cast experienced this loss. According to the official statement from World of Wonder, the team paused filming “to care for and support our cast and crew during this incredibly difficult time.” The queens for the season had not been formally announced when the incident occurred, and the company asked for privacy as it communicated with Misua’s family. Producers emphasized that their priority was the well‑being of everyone involved and that further details about the schedule or the show’s airing plans would follow once families and staff were supported.
Producer and family statements
The production company’s message described Misua as someone who “brought light, artistry, and joy to those around her,” while requesting privacy for the family. Misua’s relatives posted on social media, saying, “Jayson was our dearly loved son, brother, friend, mentor, and most of all, Jayson is a star.” The family asked for space to grieve. Castmates and former contestants offered condolences on platforms such as Instagram, with messages calling the news “absolutely heartbreaking” and remembering Misua as “an absolute star” and a creative force in the community.
Misua’s craft and community presence
On her official profile for the series, Misua was presented as a deeply creative performer and a working graphic designer who built much of her own visual identity. She was praised for making her own outfits, hair, nails and props, a testament to her comprehensive approach to performance and design. Her drag name, inspired by a family recipe, underlined the personal nature of her artistry and how cultural roots influenced her work. Colleagues described her ambition and kindness; she was seen as someone who lifted others and modelled hard work and dedication.
Artistry and influence
Misua’s style combined fashion, visual storytelling and stagecraft, and peers noted the thoughtful detail behind every look. As a member of the Haus of LaFeya, she was part of a creative collective that mentors younger performers and builds collaborative shows. That role—both as mentor and performer—helped amplify her impact beyond individual appearances and into local community development, where she shared skills and encouraged artistic growth among younger drag artists.
What this means for the show and fans
This pause in production follows a recent period of loss within the franchise; another notable figure associated with the series died last year. Organizers have indicated that the season, which World of Wonder first announced in October 2026, was slated to air later in the year, but those plans are now under review as the production takes time to regroup. Season three previously aired in 2026 with Maxie crowned as that season’s winner. Fans who subscribe to streaming services that carry the franchise, such as Wow Presents Plus, should expect official updates directly from the producers.
How to follow updates
For the latest official information, monitor statements from World of Wonder and the show’s channels. Community outlets and LGBT+ media pages also report developments and tributes from peers. The production has asked for privacy while it remains in close contact with Misua’s family, and further announcements on scheduling or tributes will be released when appropriate.
As the community mourns, the immediate focus remains on supporting those closest to Misua and honoring the creative legacy she built. Her work—rooted in design, performance and mentorship—left a visible mark on the Filipino drag scene, and the pause now announced by the producers reflects both respect for her family and the need to care for artists and staff during a painful moment.