James Lee Williams, widely celebrated as The Vivienne, the inaugural champion of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has sadly passed away at the age of 32, as confirmed by a representative.
The news of Williams' passing was shared on Instagram by Simon Jones, who described The Vivienne as an "incredibly loved" figure, both on and off the stage. Jones expressed the profound sadness felt by all who knew James, acknowledging their warmth, talent, and immense contributions to the drag and LGBTQ+ community.
"It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend," Jones wrote. "James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted 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."
The representative requested privacy for Williams' family, asking the public to allow them time to mourn and process the loss.
The Vivienne first rose to prominence in the UK drag scene in 2015, after being named the first "RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Ambassador" by RuPaul himself. This accolade was a testament to their exceptional talent and charisma, setting the stage for their future success.
In 2019, The Vivienne made history by becoming the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Her victory not only cemented her status as a household name in Britain but also inspired countless fans and fellow performers. Known for her sharp wit and glamorous style, The Vivienne used her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart, including raising awareness about addiction and recovery.
Born in Wales, Williams began their drag career in Liverpool during the late 2000s. Their journey in the drag world was marked by creativity and resilience, leading to numerous television appearances and accolades. In 2022, she returned to RuPaul’s Drag Race for the All Stars 7 season, a special all-winners edition that showcased her enduring appeal and talent.
Beyond the drag scene, The Vivienne expanded her career to include television and stage performances. In early 2023, she competed on ITV’s Dancing on Ice, captivating audiences with her performances alongside professional skater Colin Grafton. Her talent shone through, earning her a place in the finals.
In addition to her television appearances, The Vivienne took to the stage in the 2024 West End revival of The Wizard of Oz, where she portrayed the iconic Wicked Witch of the West. Her theatrical debut was met with critical acclaim, further solidifying her versatility as a performer.
The Vivienne’s personal life was marked by significant milestones and challenges. In 2019, she and her then-partner David Ludford became the first couple to marry at the legendary gay nightclub Heaven, a testament to her pioneering spirit. Although the couple parted ways in 2023, the moment remains a cherished part of her legacy.
Tragically, in June 2023, Williams was the victim of a homophobic attack in a Liverpool McDonald's. The assault highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The perpetrator was later sentenced in January 2024.
The Vivienne made her final television appearance in December 2023, participating in a celebrity edition of the classic game show Blankety Blank, sharing the stage with other notable figures such as Oti Mabuse, Jane McDonald, and Jonathan Ross.
As fans and friends mourn the loss of this remarkable performer, The Vivienne’s legacy continues to inspire the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Her contributions to drag culture, her advocacy work, and her vibrant performances have left an indelible mark on the world.
While we may no longer see The Vivienne grace our screens and stages, her spirit and influence will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations of drag performers and LGBTQ+ advocates.
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