RuPaul’s Drag Race fans are mourning the loss of The Vivienne, who passed away at the age of 32. The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, rose to fame after winning the first-ever series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. Born and raised in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, The Vivienne moved to Liverpool at the age of 16. Known for their stunning Vivienne Westwood outfits, The Vivienne also had a significant presence on other TV shows such as Morning T&T, The Vivienne Takes on Hollywood, and even ventured into reality TV with The Great British Sewing Bee.
Their publicist, Simon Jones, shared the heartbreaking news of The Vivienne’s passing on Instagram, describing them as an “incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.” Jones requested privacy for The Vivienne’s family during this difficult time as they process the loss. The Vivienne had become a trailblazer in the drag community, being the first drag act to compete on Dancing on Ice, showcasing their versatility and talent to a wide audience.
Fans and colleagues alike have been sharing their condolences and memories of The Vivienne, highlighting their impact on the drag scene and the entertainment industry as a whole. The news of their passing has sent shockwaves through the RuPaul’s Drag Race community, with many acknowledging The Vivienne’s contributions to the show and the LGBTQ+ community.
Known for their wit, charm, and impeccable sense of style, The Vivienne captured the hearts of many with their larger-than-life persona both on and off the screen. Their win on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK served as a testament to their talent and dedication to the art of drag. While the news of their untimely passing has left fans in mourning, it has also sparked an outpouring of love and respect for The Vivienne’s legacy.
As tributes continue to pour in from fans and celebrities alike, it is evident that The Vivienne’s influence extended far beyond the realm of reality TV. Their presence in the drag community will be sorely missed, but their spirit and passion for their craft will continue to inspire generations to come. The Vivienne may no longer be with us, but their impact on the world of drag will forever be remembered and celebrated. Our thoughts are with their family, friends, and fans during this difficult time as they navigate the loss of a true icon.