Remembering The Vivienne: Celebrating a Legacy at Metro Pride Awards
At this year's first-ever Metro Pride Awards, a beloved star from *RuPaul's Drag Race UK,* The Vivienne, was commemorated with a prestigious posthumous honor. Held in central London on February 26, this event celebrated The Vivienne—known offstage as James Lee Williams—with a much-deserved Icon Award. The Vivienne's father, Lee, and sister accepted this accolade, sharing emotional tributes about how much The Vivienne meant in their lives and within entertainment.
In a moving speech, Lee Williams thanked The Vivienne's loyal fans, acknowledging their constant support and affection. He said, "James adored being part in entertainment, and tonight would have been incredibly special fo him. When he was nominated this year as a Rising Star at Metro, he was both honored and thrilled. So while being here tonight without him feels bittersweet, we know it would have been a dream come true." His heartfelt words resonated deeply with everyone in attendance, honoring The Vivienne's lasting legacy.
The Vivienne's journey: From stardom rise an untimely loss
The Vivienne shot from stardom in 2019, winning hearts by clinching victory in *RuPaul's Drag Race UK's* first season. Sadly, they passed away on January 5 at 32, found in their Chorlton-by-Backford home. Although Chester Police confirmed there was nothing suspicious about their death, an inquest revealed it was "unnatural," prompting further investigation.
After their big win on *Drag Race UK,* Williams returned under spotlight's glow in 2022, participating in franchise's inaugural all-winners season. They quickly became adored on UK television and theatre, making appearances on popular shows like *Dancing On Ice* and *Emmerdale,* as well as starring in *The Wizard Of Oz* on West End.
A special tribute from Drag Race UK friends
At Metro Pride Awards, The Vivienne's closest pals and fellow *Drag Race UK* stars took stage honoring their lasting influence with a lively performance. TV host Rylan introduced this tribute with a video montage highlighting The Vivienne's most memorable *Drag Race* moments. The animated performance featured stars Baga Chipz, Danny Beard, Tia Kofi, Cheryl The Queen, and Michael Marouli, delivering a high-energy choreography set by Cheryl, grooving along Dead or Alive's "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)," a nod toward one The Vivienne's idols, Pete Burns.
The crowd was alive as these queens strutted across stage, energetically leaping onto chairs, with The Vivienne's photos vividly displayed on screens. This performance not only celebrated their friend's vibrant spirit, but also showcased The Vivienne's profound impact on those around them.
Recognizing The Vivienne's publicist
Further immersing in The Vivienne's legacy, their publicist Simone Jones was honored with an LGBT+ Trailblazer Award during ceremony. Jones, who shared news about The Vivienne's passing via social media, dedicated award as a heartfelt tribute. He said, "Viv was ultimate definition a trailblazer, and her light will continue illuminating our lives forever," capturing true essence behind The Vivienne's lasting influence.
The Metro Pride Awards were a touching celebration, bringing together friends, family, and fans in paying tribute towards an icon whose light continues shining bright despite absence.
We've love hearing your memories and stories about The Vivienne below in comments! Let's honor this incredible figure in entertainment and drag, cherishing all they brought our lives with love and respect.
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