Project Runway Star Sha’Vi Lewis Dies at 39

The fashion world is mourning the loss of a visionary.

It has been confirmed that Sha’Vi Lewis, a contestant from season 18 of ‘Project Runway‘, passed away on February 24th. At the time of his death, he was 39 years old.

Akira Frierson Wood expressed shock as she faces the fact that her star, who has passed away, is now gone forever. Over time, we will strive to adjust to a world without you in it.

Ever since his name was barely known to the rest of the world, I’ve always believed that Sha’vi was extraordinary! Now, as we grieve his passing, let us keep him in our thoughts and prayers, honoring the memory of Franklin Shavi Lewis Frierson Jr., who will forever remain dear to us.

His cause of death was not shared.

At the Emmys, Lewis’ work was showcased on the red carpet during season two of Pose, and he was further recognized with a heartfelt tribute from his aunt, Deidra “DivaDoll” Elkerson.

She posted on Facebook on February 25th: ‘I believe he’s found a wonderful new home.’ I can almost picture the warm reception he must have received upon arrival at those heavenly gates, surrounded by so many cherished relatives who went before him. What a joyous reunion it must be for him with his grandparents, great-relatives, cousins, and close friends.

Elkerson went on saying, “You’ve made an incredible impact on this world!! Your love will always be cherished and your memory will live on forever.

Prior to his time, Lewis showcased his fashion designs on the competition series and worked as a creative director for an Italian menswear brand named Stephen F., as mentioned on Bravo’s Project Runway website. During season 18, he developed friendships with fellow contestant Brittany Allen while competing under judges Karlie Kloss and Christian Siriano. In a touching tribute, Brittany also paid homage to Lewis.

In a heartfelt post on Instagram from the 25th of February, I expressed my feelings that words fail me. The pain in my heart is immense because the world and this industry will lose its sparkle without your radiant presence. Your love, your infectious laughter, and your unwavering support, no matter where our life paths led us, were everything to me.

Lewis, nurtured in a family that fostered creativity in New Jersey, discovered his affection for fashion at an early stage in life. This passion flourished even more during his teenage years at high school.

During lunch breaks, a student named Johnny, who could design all the costumes for our plays, taught me how to draw them,” he shared with the ‘Queer Newark’ initiative at the Newark Museum of Art. “Once he graduated, people started approaching me for sketching lessons.

In his words, “During my junior year, I began by creating two dresses. By the time I reached my senior year, I was working on around 10. Since then, I’ve been making approximately 30 dresses per year.

During his time at high school, Lewis discovered a mentor who helped him clearly express his life’s purpose.

“I want to be a designer,” he reflected proudly. “I love clothes and I love fashion.” 

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2025-02-26 06:47