The Vivienne, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1 and competitor on All Stars 7, passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 5. Tributes have poured in following the tragic news, which was announced by the 32-year-old’s publicist on social media.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” the statement reads.
“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,” it continued, adding that the family wishes for privacy to allow them time to process and grieve.
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In a separate post, publicist Simon Jones also shared: “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.
“No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did,” Jones added. “I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
A statement shared on RuPaul’s Drag Race’s official social media described The Vivienne’s “talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag” as “an inspiration”.
“Her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true champion.”
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In its own tribute, the BBC shared: “We are fiercely proud of The Vivienne’s achievements, including winning the first ever series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Right now our thoughts are with their family and friends, the Drag Race sisterhood and their many fans.”
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World of Wonder, the Drag Race production company, similarly expressed that it is “heartbroken” over the news and that the performer “will be greatly missed”.
Michelle Visage described The Vivienne as someone who was “always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point”.
“Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all.
“You were a beacon to so many. Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes, I’m the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times. I love you my darling. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL fly high,” Visage concluded.
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Drag Race UK vs. The World winner Tia Kofi similarly said that The Vivienne’s passing is “an incredible loss”, adding: “Viv represented UK drag at its absolute finest on stage and screen internationally. She was a mentor, an inspiration and a friend.”
Irish drag queen Victoria Secret paid tribute to the late performer on Instagram, writing: “This is so shocking. Viv was kind, funny and always the friendliest.”
Fellow Drag Race UK star and Northern Irish drag performer Blu Hydrangea described The Vivienne as “a class act, a mentor, an absolute star”, and even “family”.
“You have inspired me and my drag from the moment I realised how hard it was going to be to keep up with you on Drag Race… You are unforgettable; I will cherish our memories forever,” Blu added.
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Rest in power, James Lee Williams.
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