Credit: @thevivienne/Instagram
Police Issue Update About The Vivienne’s Death As More Devastating Details Emerge
Police have issued an update on the untimely passing of James Lee Williams, best known as The Vivienne from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
Tributes continue to pour in for the beloved performer, who captured the hearts of many after winning the inaugural season of the popular show in 2019.
The Vivienne tragically passed away last week at the age of 32.
The Vivienne’s publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the heartbreaking news via Instagram, stating: “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. Their family is heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle.”
He added that the family would not be releasing additional details and requested privacy as they grieve.
Jones, who had managed The Vivienne since their rise to fame in 2019, shared a deeply personal tribute: “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client, and someone I loved very much. Their talent was immense, and the light they brought to every room was astonishing.”
Reflecting on their career, he said: “In musical theatre, Viv found a space they loved, excelled in, and thrived. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning.”
The Vivienne’s contributions to the entertainment world were immense. In 2023, they dazzled audiences on Dancing on Ice, finishing as the runner-up.
They also earned acclaim for their portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West during a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard of Oz musical, which later extended to London’s West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
As news of their passing spread, numerous celebrities and friends expressed their sorrow.
Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram: “My darling, we go back to when I first started visiting the UK. You were always there – always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag – I loved it all, but your friendship most of all.”
Pop star Ariana Grande, who is starring in Wicked, shared her tribute on social media, posting a photo of The Vivienne accompanied by three heart emojis and an infinity symbol.
Similarly, Oti Mabuse from Strictly Come Dancing remarked: “Some news hits you harder than others and stops you in your tracks. I absolutely loved The Viv. A beautiful human being – funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative, and so warm.”
The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical, where The Vivienne was slated to perform next month as the Childcatcher, also honored their memory: “Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag were an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity.”
Police have now issued an update, confirming that they are not treating the death as suspicious.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police shared that officers were called to a residence in Chorlton-by-Backford on Sunday at approximately 12:22 PM following reports of a sudden death, per Mail Online.
The statement read: “Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man, and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”
As friends, fans, and the entertainment industry mourn the loss, The Vivienne’s influence remains undeniable.
Their groundbreaking achievements in drag, musical theatre, and television continue to inspire countless individuals worldwide.
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