RuPaul’s Drag Race* fan favorite, Lexi Love, recently shared heartwarming news with her followers: her engagement to partner, Jay Groff. But this joyous milestone was hard-won, following a challenging period marked by a significant relapse in her struggle with cocaine addiction and a temporary separation from Jay.
Lexi’s journey underscores the complex realities of sobriety, even after achieving a major life goal like appearing on *Drag Race*. While she and Jay had discussed a future together, Jay was clear that a serious commitment, including marriage, was contingent upon Lexi demonstrating sustained dedication to her sobriety.
The drag queen candidly revealed that her substance abuse issues escalated dramatically after filming *Drag Race*. Initially, cocaine became a means to cope with the grueling schedule of touring and performing, a demanding lifestyle that intensified overnight with her post-show success. Ironically, her time on the reality competition provided an unexpected, albeit forced, break from her habit. The strict filming environment meant she had to stop using, resulting in what she called a “little wellness retreat” – a 43-day period of sobriety.
However, once filming wrapped, the problem, which she had largely managed to conceal from her castmates, returned with alarming intensity. What began as a background issue quickly spiraled into daily use, leaving her feeling completely out of control.
This struggle profoundly impacted her relationship with Jay. He ultimately ended their relationship, emphasizing that she needed to address her addiction and get her life in order before they could consider a future together. In response, Lexi entered a rehabilitation facility to tackle both her substance abuse and mental health.
Yet, her experience in formal rehab was fraught with difficulties. Lexi encountered a lack of understanding regarding the LGBTQ+ community among staff and felt she received differential treatment compared to cisgender patients. Recognizing the negative impact on her mental health, she made the difficult decision to leave the facility prematurely.
**Crucially, despite the setback in formal treatment, Lexi remained steadfast in her commitment to recovery outside the rehab setting.** During this challenging time, Jay remained a supportive presence, maintaining contact even while she was in the facility. Their bond proved resilient.
Less than a month after reconciling, Lexi and Jay made the mutual decision to propose to one another. They celebrated their engagement with close friends and family in Cynthiana, Kentucky, their home state. Reflecting their unique bond, they opted for a non-traditional approach, foregoing typical posed engagement photos.
Their whirlwind romance began just last Halloween at a party where Lexi was performing. Jay, in a Chucky costume, caught her eye, and a simple exchange set the stage for their connection.
Looking ahead, the couple plans to exchange vows next year during Pride Month, a date chosen partly to signify Lexi achieving a full year of sobriety – a deeply meaningful milestone for both of them. While Jay envisions a small, intimate courthouse ceremony, Lexi dreams of a grand, elaborate affair. She hopes to include fellow *Drag Race* queens and even envisions a unique double wedding with Kori King and Lydia B. Kollins, who also found love on her season.
With Lexi now on a solid path of recovery and the couple building their life together, Jay, a trans man and former vet tech, is transitioning to a “stay-at-home dog dad” role. They are expanding their family with a new puppy and plan to travel the country with their pets as Lexi tours.
Reflecting on her journey, Lexi shared a profound realization: **”Life is so beautiful,” she remarked.** She believes her appearance on *RuPaul’s Drag Race* entered her life not primarily for fame or success, but as a catalyst – a powerful reason to get clean and stay clean, enabling her to truly appreciate real life and find a partner who understands and supports her completely. Her story is a testament to the possibility of overcoming immense challenges and finding love and happiness on the other side.
