The Vivienne Has Died Aged 32
James Lee Williams, professionally known as The Vivienne, has tragically died aged 32.
The Vivienne found stardom in 2015 after becoming the U.K. Drag Ambassador for the American series of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The popular reality competition TV program shows talented drag queens battling against each other, bidding to become the ultimate winner.
The Vivienne later competed in the first U.K. series of the show, ultimately becoming the winner after lip-syncing in the final to The Wham hit ‘I’m Your Man.’
They later competed in the 2022 All-Stars edition of the show.
The drag queen was given their name of The Vivienne as they were known for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing.
The RuPaul Drag Race star’s publicist, Simon Jones, took to Instagram and confirmed the devastating news in a post.
The statement read: “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, warm-hearted, 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.
“We will not be releasing any further details.”
The message concluded: “We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
Fans have taken to social media and paid tribute after hearing the saddening news.
One person writes: “Such terribly sad news, the loss of such talent at just 32 is heartbreaking.”
Another adds: “Rest in paradise to our first-ever winner of Drag Race UK.”
“RIP The Vivienne,” pens a third. “A worldwide talent gone too soon.”
Somebody else says: “Rest in peace to a legend.”
Fellow showbiz stars have also taken to social media and paid their condolences.
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage pens: “I don’t have the words. Utterly heartbroken.”
Pussycat Doll member Ashley Roberts adds: “Omg! I can’t believe this. This is heartbreaking news.”
This Morning presenter Harriet Rose writes: “Oh Simon I’m so sorry for your loss. That is absolutely heartbreaking.”
Outside of RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Vivienne’s TV credits include Celebrity Hunted in 2022 in aid of Stand Up to Cancer.
They also made history by becoming the first-ever drag queen to compete in Dancing On Ice, finishing in third place with professional partner Colin Grafton.
Their last screen appearance was just days ago, in the festival special of Blankety Blank on Boxing Day.
Additionally, The Vivienne ventured into theatre, starring as The Wicked Witch of the West in 2011’s The Wizard of Oz, a star they reprised in the West End.
They also showcased their musical talents with their 2022 debut EP ‘B**** on Heels.’
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