Michelle Visage, Drag Race Stars, and Fans Remember The Vivienne

The entertainment community is deeply saddened by the loss of James Lee Williams, known to many as The Vivienne, the celebrated winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. This talented star passed away at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by many.

Michelle Visage, a judge on Drag Race, expressed her sorrow in a heartfelt Instagram post. She shared cherished moments with Williams, describing them as an "incredible beacon" to many. Her tribute was filled with love and admiration for The Vivienne, highlighting the joy and laughter they shared over the years.

"Heartbreaking. I don’t know how to say how I feel. My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK," Visage wrote. "You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many," she added.

Visage also reflected on witnessing The Vivienne's West End debut, calling it a dream come true. "Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes," she recalled. "I’m the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times. I love you my darling. You will be so missed, my lovely."

Other stars from the Drag Race franchise also paid tribute. Tia Kofi, a fellow drag performer, described The Vivienne as a "mentor, an inspiration and a friend" in her poignant message. "This is an incredible loss to the British drag community and to the world," she wrote, emphasizing Viv's influence on UK drag.

First rising to fame as the "RuPaul’s Drag Race UK ambassador" in 2015, The Vivienne became a household name after winning the inaugural season of Drag Race UK in 2019. Their career in drag began in 2007, growing from strength to strength as they became an international drag sensation.

After their historic win, The Vivienne returned to compete in All Stars 7, the first "All Winners" season, showcasing their immense talent once again. They also appeared on ITV’s Dancing On Ice, making it to the finals in 2023. Their stage presence reached new heights when they performed in the West End as the Wicked Witch of the West in a revival of The Wizard of Oz in 2024.

Renowned writer Russell T Davies remembered The Vivienne with fondness, calling them delightful and full of talent. "We met a couple times and chatted online. I was expecting lots of drag queen banter and b*tching, but he was far more than that, kinder and more thoughtful," Davies remarked in his tribute.

Rylan, a well-known TV presenter, expressed his sadness on social media, lamenting the loss of such a remarkable performer. Shea Couleé, a fellow Drag Race contestant, also shared her shock, describing the news as "devastating."

Jinkx Monsoon, the winner of All Stars 7, honored The Vivienne's memory, noting the indelible mark they left on both audiences and fellow performers alike. Jaida Essence Hall, another contestant, remembered them as "perfect" and "an incredible person to everyone."

Trinity The Tuck expressed her deep sorrow over losing a beloved friend: "I’m so heartbroken over the news of my friend! Viv was such a great friend! Always made time for you! I had the best of times in all the projects we shared and more than that she was just a good person! I cannot believe this!"

Celebrities across various entertainment fields joined in the tributes. Ashley Roberts, Antony Cotton, Patsy Palmer, and Todrick Hall shared their condolences and memories of The Vivienne, highlighting the widespread impact Williams had across communities.

The Vivienne’s publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the news of their passing with a heartfelt message. "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, warmhearted and amazing person," the statement reads.

Their family is understandably heartbroken and requests privacy to grieve. "They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career," Jones added.

The loss of The Vivienne is a significant blow to the drag and LGBTQ+ community, but their legacy of joy, talent, and inspiration will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know them or witness their art.