Drag Star The Vivienne Passes Away at 32
James Lee Williams, widely known by the stage name The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. Beloved across the drag and entertainment community, The Vivienne rose to fame as the winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, leaving an indelible mark on British drag culture.
Publicist Simon Jones described the performer as “an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.” The Vivienne, who passed over the weekend, was celebrated not only for their theatrical and TV performances but also for their unwavering dedication to the art of drag.
The official Drag Race franchise expressed their grief on social media, stating they were “deeply saddened” by the news of The Vivienne’s passing. “She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true champion,” the tribute read. The post went on to highlight Vivienne’s immense talent, humor, and influence, calling her a source of inspiration for countless fans worldwide.
Judge Michelle Visage shared heartfelt memories of the star, calling The Vivienne “a beacon to so many.” She reflected on their friendship, saying, “Your laughter, wit, talent, and drag were unmatched, but I loved your friendship most of all.”
Other stars from the drag community also mourned the loss. Fellow Drag Race competitor Cheryl Hole wrote on Instagram, “I will love you forever, Viv,” while Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash expressed their shock, saying, “I’m so sorry. I’m in total shock.”
Tributes poured in from Liverpool, The Vivienne’s hometown, where drag fans and community leaders honored her contributions. John Hyland, from the LGBTQ+ and HIV charity Sahir, praised The Vivienne for her generosity, noting her recent support for the charity’s fundraising campaign. “It says a lot about Viv’s character that her last social post was about giving back,” he shared.
Natasha Von Spirit, a Liverpool drag queen, credited The Vivienne with bringing British drag into the mainstream. She added, “Whenever she was out on the scene after Drag Race, she was just one of the Liverpool gays. Tonight, I’ll play songs in tribute, including her beloved Walking in Memphis and her own music.”
Born in Wales, James Lee Williams adopted the drag name The Vivienne as a nod to their love for Vivienne Westwood clothing. They attended Rydal Penrhos School in Colwyn Bay, which released a statement saying it was “deeply shocked and saddened” by their passing. “The Vivienne’s career as a performer and artist brought joy and inspiration to so many,” the school said.
Beyond Drag Race, The Vivienne had a flourishing career, competing in the 2022 all-winners season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in the US and starring in The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood on BBC Three in 2020. In addition, they earned third place on Dancing On Ice in 2023 and shone as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz musical tour.
Publicist Simon Jones, devastated by the loss, described The Vivienne as having unmatched comic genius and quick wit. “No one has ever made me laugh as much as Viv did. I’m so proud and lucky to have had Viv as a big part of my life,” he said.
The BBC’s Fiona Campbell also honored The Vivienne, calling the news “deeply sad” and praising her achievements, including being the first-ever winner of Drag Race UK. “Right now, our thoughts are with their family, friends, and the Drag Race sisterhood,” she stated.
As the drag community and fans worldwide mourn the passing of The Vivienne, her legacy as a pioneer of British drag and an inspiration to many will continue to shine brightly.
