The family of The Vivienne has raised concerns about whether the stigma surrounding drug use hindered the drag queen from seeking help, leading to their tragic passing earlier this year. The Vivienne, also known as James Lee Williams, who gained fame by winning the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, passed away at their home in Chorlton-by-Backford, Cheshire, on January 5 after consuming ketamine at the age of 32.
Speaking on BBC Two’s Newsnight, Chanel Williams, The Vivienne’s sister, disclosed that her sibling did not disclose their relapse and subsequent hospitalization to protect their privacy, after a lengthy period of sobriety. Chanel Williams expressed her thoughts, questioning whether the existence of stigmas surrounding drug use prevented her brother from accessing the necessary help. She pondered on the possibility of a different outcome if The Vivienne had felt comfortable discussing their struggles openly.
In a bid to raise awareness and shed light on the issue, the family revealed in March that The Vivienne’s death resulted from the effects of ketamine use leading to a cardiac arrest. They announced their intention to collaborate with the drug charity Adferiad in future campaigns. Chanel Williams emphasized the importance of addressing the classification of ketamine, advocating for its relocation from Class B to Class A due to misconceptions about its harm levels compared to other drugs.
Furthermore, she stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy involving education, law enforcement, and healthcare to enhance awareness and combat drug addiction and related fatalities in the UK. The UK government has shown an intent to seek expert advice regarding the escalating illegal use of ketamine, following a surge in reported incidents. The urgency to reassess the classification of ketamine from a Class B to a Class A substance has been highlighted to mitigate the risks associated with its consumption.
Reflecting on their personal struggles with addiction, The Vivienne had bravely shared their past experiences while on Drag Race, acknowledging a history of drug dependency over four years. They described reaching a critical point where intervention was necessary after realising the detrimental impact addiction had on their life. The journey towards sobriety was portrayed as a challenging and solitary experience, marked by self-destructive behaviours that could have led to a tragic end if left unchecked.
The inquest into The Vivienne’s untimely death has been opened and adjourned at Cheshire Coroner’s Court, with a full inquest scheduled for June 30. Statistically, an estimated 299,000 individuals aged 16 to 59 reported using ketamine in the year ending March 2023, highlighting the prevalence of its use among the younger demographic. The substance, classified as Class B, is described by the UK national anti-drug advisory service as a general anaesthetic inducing dream-like sensations, relaxation, happiness, but also confusion and discomfort.
Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson has acknowledged the serious repercussions of ketamine misuse, prompting governmental action and collaboration with advisory bodies to address the growing concerns. The tragic loss of The Vivienne has underscored the critical need for comprehensive measures to combat drug usage and prevent further tragedies, as authorities continue to assess and respond to evolving drug-related challenges in society.