RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne dies aged 32
3 min read
James Lee Williams, known to fans as drag queen The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. The news, announced over the weekend, has left the entertainment world in shock. Simon Jones, The Vivienne’s publicist, described the performer as “an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person” in a statement.
Best known for her victory on the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, The Vivienne’s death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment industry. The iconic show expressed its sadness on social media, calling her a “beacon of creativity and authenticity,” and praising her as a true champion. They added that her “talent, humour, and dedication to the art of drag” served as an inspiration, and that her legacy would live on.
Michelle Visage, a Drag Race judge, shared a heartfelt tribute, calling The Vivienne a “beacon to so many.” Visage reflected on their long history, mentioning how they had known each other from her early visits to the UK. “Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all,” Visage wrote.
Other Drag Race alumni were quick to express their shock and sadness at the news. Bimini Bon Boulash, who also competed on Drag Race UK, wrote on Instagram, “I’m so sorry, I’m in total shock.” Fellow competitor Cheryl The Queen, who performed under the name Cheryl Hole, shared her condolences, writing, “I will love you forever, Viv.”
Born in Wales, The Vivienne’s drag name was inspired by her love of Vivienne Westwood clothing. She had a long-standing connection to the Welsh community, with Rydal Penrhos school in Colwyn Bay, where Williams was a former student, expressing deep sadness at her death. “The Vivienne’s successful career as a performer and artist proved a source of inspiration and joy to so many,” the school said in a statement.
The Vivienne’s career spanned several areas of entertainment. Beyond Drag Race UK, she garnered further recognition as a contestant on the 2023 edition of Dancing On Ice, where she finished in third place. She also enjoyed success on the stage, portraying the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard of Oz. Her West End debut in the role came in 2023 at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
In addition to her theatrical work, The Vivienne appeared in various television projects, including starring in The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood for BBC Three in 2020. In 2022, she competed in an all-winners season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, further cementing her place as a trailblazer in the drag world.
Just days before her passing, The Vivienne shared a post on Instagram to reflect on the year gone by. The caption, “24′ highlights,” celebrated her accomplishments and signaled optimism for the year ahead. “What a year it’s been. Here’s to reaching new heights and achieving dreams in 25,” she wrote, bidding her followers farewell with “Viv xxx.”
Simon Jones, who worked closely with The Vivienne for five years, expressed his sorrow over her death, calling it a profound loss. “No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit were like no other,” he said. Jones added that he was proud and grateful for the time he spent with The Vivienne, asking for privacy for her family as they navigate this difficult period.
Fiona Campbell, BBC’s controller of youth audience, also paid tribute to The Vivienne’s achievements, particularly her groundbreaking win on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. “Right now, our thoughts are with their family and friends, the Drag Race sisterhood, and their many fans,” Campbell said.
The Vivienne’s passing has left a deep void in the drag and entertainment communities. Known for her sharp wit, immense talent, and heartwarming personality, she touched the lives of many. Her legacy, both as a performer and as a person, will live on through the countless fans she inspired and the barriers she broke for the LGBTQ+ community.
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