RuPaul’s Drag Race star The Vivienne dies aged 32
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RuPaul’s Drag Race star The Vivienne has died aged 32, their publicist has said. James Lee Williams, who performed as the drag queen, won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and came third on the 2023 edition of Dancing On Ice. Williams, who was born in Wales, adopted the drag name as they were known for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing.
Their publicist, Simon Jones, announced the news on Sunday evening, writing that Williams was an “incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person”. In a post on Instagram, Mr Jones added: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. “We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”.
Mr Jones added that Williams would be remembered for their “immense talent” and “the light they brought to every room was astonishing”. In a tribute on Instagram, he added: “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much.
“Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.”. RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage paid tribute to Williams, saying they were “a beacon to so many”. Alongside pictures of them together, Visage wrote on Instagram: “Heartbreaking, I don’t know how to say how I feel.
