The Vivienne: Drag Race UK and Dancing On Ice star dies aged 32 as Michelle Visage leads tributes
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The Vivienne has died aged 32 it has been announced. The star born James Lee Williams became a household name thanks to their charm and humour. The devastating news comes just a week after The Vivienne appeared on stage in the theatre production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The Vivienne had also been active on social media in the days leading up to her sad death. Just days before her death, The Vivienne had the likes of Jane McDonald, Bradley Walsh, Joel Dommett, Oti Mabuse and Jonathan Ross in fits of laughter as she shared her Christmas experience.
A spokesperson for the RuPaul's Drag Race UK star took to social media on Sunday night to confirm the shattering news. In a statement, they said: "It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
"James was an incredibly loved, warm- hearted and amazing person. 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 will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.".
Simon Jones, a close friend and publicist for The Vivienne shared the news alongside a broken heart emoji. Tributes have since poured in for the late telly star from the likes of Michelle Visage, Ashley Roberts and Lisa Riley. In a separate post, Simon explained how "proud" he was of The Vivienne and revealed an insight into their close bond. He penned: "These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.