Divine was an American actor who is best known for Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, and Female Trouble. He was born Harris Glenn Milstead on October 19, 1945, in Baltimore, Maryland, and became a famous figure in bad taste cinema.
Personal and Family Life
Divine grew up in Baltimore and became friends with filmmaker John Waters during high school. Together, they created several controversial and unconventional films that gained a cult following. Divine often embraced his flamboyant persona and was known for his extravagant performances as a drag queen.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Divine starred in various films that challenged social norms, including the notorious Pink Flamingos, where he played a character considered the “filthiest person alive.” He also appeared in Polyester and was celebrated for his role in Hairspray, which presented a loving homage to 1960s teen dance shows.
Death and Legacy
Divine passed away on March 7, 1988, in Los Angeles, California, due to respiratory failure linked to sleep apnea. His contribution to film and drag culture left a lasting impact, influencing future performers and filmmakers. Divine’s characters continue to inspire and entertain audiences, ensuring his legacy endures in queer cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Out of the Dark | 1988-06-02 | Det. Langella |
| Trouble in Mind | 1985-12-11 | Hilly Blue |
| Female Trouble | 1974-10-04 | Dawn Davenport / Earl Peterson |
| Polyester | 1981-05-29 | Francine Fishpaw |
| Lust in the Dust | 1985-03-01 | Rosie Velez |
| Hairspray | 1988-02-26 | Edna Turnblad / Arvin Hodgepile |
| Pink Flamingos | 1972-03-17 | Divine / Babs Johnson |
| Divine Trash | 2000-03-31 | Self |
| I Am Divine | 2013-03-09 | Self (archive footage) |