A former production assistant (PA) on HBO’s docuseries We’re Here has decided not to pursue his lawsuit for rape against Darius Jeremy “DJ” Pierce, also known as Shangela, a former RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant. However, Pierce still faces sexual assault allegations from five other men and denies any wrongdoing.
The PA, Daniel McGarrigle, had accused Pierce of raping him in a Louisiana hotel room after McGarrigle became drunk and passed out following a 2020 crew party for the docuseries. McGarrigle sought unspecified damages for alleged sexual assault, sexual harassment, gender violence, false imprisonment, and negligence.
Pierce expressed being “hurt and disgusted” by the allegations, which he deemed as “totally untrue” and “entirely meritless.” He also stated that an external investigation found the claims to be baseless.
On October 19, a judge dismissed McGarrigle’s gender violence and civil rights violations claims. Pierce and McGarrigle attended mediation on January 16, during which McGarrigle agreed to dismiss his case.
However, in March,
five other men also alleged that Pierce had sexually assaulted them or engaged in sexual activity while they were too intoxicated to consent. The incidents supposedly took place between 2012 and 2018 when the men were between 18 and 23 years old. One accuser, RoyLee Soliz, recounted waking up to Pierce attempting to insert his penis into his mouth after a night of drinking together. Another accuser, identified as Zachary, said Pierce provided drinks until he passed out, following which, Pierce and another unidentified man attempted to penetrate him. Two other accusers made similar allegations. A fifth accuser, Edward Ramirez, claimed that Pierce tried to sexually assault him in a walk-in closet. According to
Rolling Stone
, all five accusers have spoken out against anti-drag bans in Republican-led states nationwide, expressing concern that their accusations might fuel anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-drag narratives. Nevertheless, they insisted that Pierce should be held accountable for his alleged actions. Following the recent accusations, Pierce temporarily halted social media activity. However, on April 4, sheposted an Instagram photo
of herself smiling in a field of bluebonnet flowers. The caption on the post mentioned focusing on positivity, expressing gratitude for family, friends, mentors, faith, and supportive people globally. Pierce affirmed a commitment to perseverance and thanked others for their love and support. Nevertheless, five other men have accused the drag performer of sexual misconduct.
The caption on the post said, “Focusing on the light. Grateful for u Mom, and for my friends, family, mentors, my faith, and genuine people around the world who help lift my spirit thru the madness. I’ve always told y’all to never give up … and I promise not to either. No matter what. Thx for the love, and u already know this lil Texas doll is sending it right back atcha.”
