The Vivienne tribute: One of the greatest drag stars ever and my dear friend
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I first met The Vivienne (real name James Lee Williams) just after they had won RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. I was already a huge fan, as I had avidly watched the first season – like much of the country – and was blown away by The Vivienne’s amazing presence on the show. I was asked if I’d be interested in managing Viv and I jumped at the opportunity, just as the first lockdown approached in 2020.
![[LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 18: The Vivienne and RuPaul Charles at RuPaul's DragCon UK presented by World Of Wonder at Olympia London on January 18, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for World Of Wonder Productions)]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_235188683-5d06.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
I just instantly knew we could make history and open doors for drag in this country. It was really important to me that I did something positive, uplifting and game-changing. Together with Viv we did just that. Viv became a client, but a really good friend and someone I cared for dearly. In fact, we spoke nearly every day as our lives became intertwined.
![[The Vivienne thrills as The Wicked Witch of the West]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_235142136-2a40.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
From the beginning, I quickly realised that Viv was a hilarious talent. I have never laughed as hard as I have watching them perform. Their quick wit, comic timing and genius snap backs were side-splitting, but it was always done with love and a huge wink.
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video. Up Next. Audiences loved Viv. They felt safe with their hands and would laugh all night. Viv’s content for Netflix is some of the most hilarious filming you will ever watch, and that is why it is still constantly being clipped up on TikTok.
