Chuck Varga, a co-founder of the shock-rock band GWAR and a key figure in its grotesque, theatrical aesthetic, died on September 25, 2026, at 68 after a cancer battle. His death was announced by GWAR bassist Casey Orr, who described Varga as 'one of a kind' and noted he passed peacefully with his wife, Bambi, by his side. Orr paid tribute to Varga's legacy, referencing his role as the Sexicutioner and his contributions to the band's 'underground aesthetic.'
Varga, who performed with GWAR during its 1986-1996 breakthrough and returned for intermittent stints until 2017, was diagnosed with cancer in April 2026. The band organized a blood donation campaign in his honor and later launched a fundraiser to cover his medical expenses. GWAR's Bob Gorman highlighted Varga's influence on the band's artistic vision, stating his 'illustrations, character designs, and performances' shaped their universe.
Born in 1958, Varga co-founded the Richmond-based art collective Slave Pit Studios, which contributed to GWAR's formation. He left the band in 1997 to pursue film, TV, and Broadway work but remained involved in GWAR's projects. The band, which gained Grammy nominations in the 1990s, is set to tour this October with other acts. Details about Varga's survivors were not immediately disclosed.