Violet Chachki has spoken out in support of her good friend and fellow RuPaul’s Drag Race star Katya, saying she is ‘doing very well.

Speaking to Gay Star News from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she was performing on the Werq the World Tour, Violet said she is in regular contact with Katya.

‘It’s really hard to enjoy it and not get overwhelmed’

When asked ‘Have you or any of the girls been in touch with Katya? How is she?’ Violet replied: ‘Yes, I talk to Katya at least once a week, sometimes more. She’s doing very well. She’s taking a break, resting.’

Last month, Katya announced a hiatus from drag, saying in an Instagram video: ‘I’m telling you this with a sense of urgency. I’m not dying. Let me tell you the truth. I’m not dying, I want to live. I’m a drug addict, but I’m sober. Today, and yesterday. And before. But I need to take a vacation, because I want to survive like Gloria Gaynor.’

‘This year, for me, is all about saying no’

In the full interview to be published next week. Violet furthermore added: ‘Going back to what I was saying about the new girls [from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10], it is really hard to enjoy it and not get overwhelmed. You have to take care of yourself.’

She continues: ’I’ve been saying no to a lot of stuff this year. I think a lot of girls are at the point where we’re like: “OK. We need to start saying no to things and taking breaks and taking care of ourselves.” I think Katya is a good example of that.

‘This year, for me, is all about saying no, and it feels so good. You have to schedule break times. I have three weeks off after this tour and I’m so excited!’

Violet, who identifies as gender-fluid, of course won the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Katya appeared in the same season, and returned for the second season of All Stars, finishing second behind Alaska Thunderfuck.