RuPaul’s Drag Race star, The Vivienne, has passed away at the age of 32, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning. The talented performer, whose real name is James Lee Williams, rose to fame after winning the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and finishing third on Dancing On Ice in 2023. Oti Mabuse, judge on Dancing On Ice, praised The Vivienne as a “phenomenal entertainer” and a “trailblazer”, while Jinkx Monsoon, another RuPaul’s Drag Race winner, remembered them for leaving a lasting impact. The news of Williams’s death was shared by their publicist, Simon Jones, who described them as a beloved and incredibly talented individual.
Born in Wales and later relocating to Liverpool, The Vivienne was known for their immense talent and charismatic presence. Michelle Visage, judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, paid tribute to Williams, expressing heartbreak over the loss of a dear friend and talented artist. Williams’s performances as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz musical were highly acclaimed, with a successful run in the West End. They were set to tour in the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical next month in the role of the Childcatcher.
In a statement, RuPaul’s Drag Race mourned the passing of The Vivienne, acknowledging their contribution to the world of drag. Fiona Campbell, BBC controller of youth audience, expressed sadness over the news and praised The Vivienne’s achievements. Colleagues from Dancing On Ice, including Patsy Palmer, Antony Cotton, and Lisa Riley, shared their sorrow and remembered The Vivienne as a kind and talented soul. Their impact on the community was evident as tributes poured in from various sectors of the entertainment industry.
Cheshire Police confirmed that they had attended an address following reports of a sudden death, stating that there were no suspicious circumstances. The passing of The Vivienne comes after a previous incident in 2023, where they were the victim of a hate crime. Despite facing challenges, Williams continued to shine in their career, captivating audiences with their performances and personality. The entertainment world has lost a bright star, but The Vivienne’s legacy will live on through their art and the impact they had on those around them.
The news of The Vivienne’s death has left fans and colleagues reeling, as they remember the remarkable talent and warm-hearted individual that James Lee Williams was. The outpouring of tributes from friends, fans, and industry figures is a testament to the impact that The Vivienne had on the world of drag and beyond. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved artist, they also celebrate the joy and inspiration that The Vivienne brought to countless lives through their performances and presence. James Lee Williams may have left this world, but the memory of The Vivienne will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and admired them.