Chuck Varga, GWAR Founding Member and Performer Behind the Sexecutioner, Dies at 68
Chuck Varga, a founding member of the theatrical metal band GWAR who performed as the Sexecutioner, has died at 68 following a battle with cancer.
GWAR bassist Casey Orr announced Varga’s death on September 25. Orr said Varga died peacefully with his wife, Bambi, holding his hand. Earlier this year, the band organized a fundraiser to help the couple with expenses related to Varga’s treatment and care. (nme.com)
The Artist Behind a GWAR Character
Varga helped shape GWAR’s visual world as well as its music. Working with the Richmond, Virginia, collective, he contributed character designs, costumes, props and performances that became central to the band’s elaborate stage shows. He portrayed the Sexecutioner for decades and contributed vocals to GWAR recordings, including the song “Sexecutioner.” (nme.com)
Varga stepped away from full-time touring in 1997 to pursue work in New York, but returned for occasional performances with the band. His creative work also extended to GWAR’s films, including the Grammy-nominated Phallus in Wonderland. (nme.com)
Remembering his friend and bandmate, Orr described Varga as a singular artist and performer whose loss would be deeply felt. Varga is survived by his wife, Bambi. (nme.com)
