Legends Brighton, Duchess and Lola Lasagne to remember iconic drag artist Phill Starr
– 2 min read
Twenty years have passed since the sudden death of Phil Starr, one of Britain’s most beloved drag performers, yet his legacy continues to sparkle across the cabaret stages he once graced.
On Monday, 20 October, Legends Brighton will be joined by The Duchess and Lola Lasagne as it celebrates the life of the legendary drag artist - one of the brightest jewels ever to shine on the drag scene!
Legends Brighton said: "Join friends, fans, and fabulous queens as we toast (again and again!) to Phil’s dazzling legacy. Mistress of ceremonies will the one and only Duchess accompanied by special guest Lola Lasagne. Show time will be 9pm sharp! Grab your heels, bring your cheers, and let’s celebrate in style."
Born Arthur James Fuller in Croydon on 31 March 1932, Starr began his career in the 1950s and quickly became a fixture of the London and south coast gay scene. Known for his old-school cabaret style, his performances were a blend of comic storytelling, shaggy dog tales, and unexpected punchlines.
Starr’s career spanned over five decades, during which he performed not only across the UK but also internationally. He was a regular at Legends Brighton, where he gave his final performance on 16 October 2005, just two days before his death at the age of 73. His last song, poignantly, was Dame Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again, a fitting farewell from a man who had become a cherished figure in the LGBTQ+ community.
Beyond the stage, Starr was deeply involved in charitable work. He raised thousands of pounds for various causes, including an orphanage in Thailand following the 2004 tsunami. His generosity and warmth were as legendary as his comic timing.
He often performed alongside late Brighton drag artist Maisie Trollette, forming the iconic duo Arsenic and Old Lace. Their chemistry and camaraderie were unmatched, and their shows LGBTQ+ venues became local institutions.
Starr also made television appearances, including a memorable stint on BBC’s The Weakest Link, and was working on a sitcom titled Over the Rainbow with EastEnders actress June Brown before his passing.
His death on 18 October 2005 was met with an outpouring of grief. Tributes flooded in from fans, fellow performers, and the wider community. David Harvey, then-chairman of Brighton & Hove Pride, summed it up best: “They don’t make them like Phil anymore. He was a super showman and his comic timing was impeccable.”
