RuPaul’s Drag Race UK finalist Kitty Scott-Claus ran the London Marathon on Sunday, April 27, in memory of her close friend and fellow queen, The Vivienne. She was joined by Jeremy Joseph, owner of the iconic G-A-Y nightclubs, as they laced up their runners in support of Sahir House, the late star’s favourite LGBTQ+ charity.
The Vivienne, who won the first season of Drag Race UK in 2019, sadly passed away at her home near Chester on January 5 this year. Her family later confirmed the cause of death as cardiac arrest following the use of ketamine.
Reflecting on their friendship, Kitty described The Vivienne as “the best older sister you could ask for,” adding, “She was always someone you could turn to for advice. She would always be in your corner, fighting for you.”
Kitty completed the 42.2km race in full drag, with the exception of high heels, and paused only at mile 21, also known as Rainbow Row, for a special performance of Heather Small’s empowering anthem ‘Proud’. She was joined by fellow Drag Race UK star Cheryl, with Jeremy Joseph introducing the segment and offering a heartfelt tribute to The Vivienne’s legacy.
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The decision to run the marathon came shortly after The Vivienne’s passing. Kitty Scott-Claus and Jeremy took to the trails in the days that followed as a way to process their grief.
“We started running and thought, should we even be doing this?” Kitty recalled. “But that run was the best thing for all of us. We were remembering The Viv and celebrating her life. It felt so good mentally. I finished that run thinking, ‘I’m so pleased I did that – I feel like a weight has been lifted.’”
The charity they are supporting, Sahir House, has provided essential services for the LGBTQ+ community for more than 50 years, including operating the National LGBTQ+ Support Line.
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