Credit: @thevivienne_/Instagram
The Vivienne’s Cause Of Death Confirmed
The cause of death for James Lee Williams, best known as drag star The Vivienne, has been confirmed.
The TV star, who grew up in Colwyn Bay in north Wales before moving to Liverpool, found fame in 2015 after becoming the U.K. drag ambassador for the American series of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
They later competed in the U.K. version of the popular reality TV program, ultimately becoming the winner.
The performer went on to become the only queen from the U.K. series to compete in the U.S. version of Drag Race All Stars.
Earlier this year, fans were left devastated when news broke of The Vivienne’s death at age 32.
The TV star’s publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the heartbreaking news via Instagram.
A 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.”
Jones then requested privacy for The Vivienne’s family during this difficult time.
At the end of January, a funeral was held for the beloved star in Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire. It was attended by celebrities including singer Jade Thirlwall and Ian ‘H’ Watkins from Steps.
Before their tragic death, The Vivienne shared an important final social media post.
They encouraged fans on social media to support the LGBTQ+ and HIV charity SAHIR, stressing the importance of its charitable work.
“Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable-wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpool’s oldest LGBT+ charity!!! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it,” their final post read.
Now, months following their untimely passing, a cause of death has been disclosed.
The Vivienne was found dead at their home in Cheshire in January.
An update from the police at the time stated: “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.”
The Vivienne’s family says the drag star died from a cardiac arrest caused by the effects of ketamine, per the BBC.
An inquest is scheduled to occur in June.
Ketamine, a powerful horse tranquilizer and anesthetic, is a licensed drug and can be prescribed medically but its usage as an illegal substance is growing in popularity among young people.
Their sister, Chanel Williams, said their family will be working with a substance abuse charity to raise awareness of the dangers of drugs.
While the 32-year-old’s manager and close friend, Jones, said the family felt it was important to share the circumstances surrounding their death.
He said: “I hope by us releasing this information we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body.”
The Vivienne received praise for raising awareness of substance abuse during their time on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
Their family hopes to continue this legacy by working with the substance abuse charity Adferiad on a campaign about open conversation regarding substance abuse and addiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-4357 in the U.S.A.
In the U.K., you can contact FRANK at 0300 123 6600 or http://talktofrank.com for confidential advice and information about drugs, their effects, and the law.
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