James Lee Williams, who gained fame as the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and was affectionately known as The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the young age of 32.
In a poignant statement, a representative shared: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely loss of our cherished James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, who departed this weekend.
“James was an incredibly beloved, compassionate, and remarkable individual.
“Their family is heartbroken by the loss of a son, brother, and uncle. They brim with pride over the extraordinary accomplishments James has realized throughout their life and career.
“We will not disclose any additional information at this time. We kindly ask for the privacy and space that James’s family needs to mourn and process this loss.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage expressed that she was “deeply heartbroken” upon hearing the news.
Alongside photos featuring herself and The Vivienne, she remarked: “I find it difficult to articulate how I feel. My dear @thevivienne_ we traced back to the time I first visited the UK.
“You were always present, incessantly joyful, generously giving, and consistently on point. Your laughter, humor, talent, and drag artistry meant the world—yet your friendship was what I cherished the most.”
She further stated: “My love for you is boundless, my dear. You will be immensely missed. May your brilliance blaze brightly, forever.”
The Vivienne catapulted to fame in 2015 after being appointed as the UK Drag Ambassador for the American version of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The show features drag queens competing in front of a panel of judges vying to be crowned the next drag superstar.
The Vivienne later participated in the inaugural UK series of the show in 2019, ultimately securing victory after a lip-sync to the Wham! classic I’m Your Man in the finale.
The inspiration for their drag name stemmed from their admiration for designer Vivienne Westwood.
Born in Wales, Williams also was a finalist, finishing third in the 2023 season of Dancing On Ice.
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Numerous celebrities and co-stars have expressed their condolences on social media. Former Pussycat Doll Ashley Roberts stated: “Oh my god! I cannot believe this. This is devastating news.”
Shea Coulee, winner of the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, remarked: “I am completely and utterly shocked. This is truly heartbreaking.”
Another Drag Race alum, Bimini Bon Boulash, commented: “I’m so sorry. I’m in utter disbelief.”
Williams’s publicist, Simon Jones, also spoke of their “profound talent” and “remarkable humor and sharp wit.”
Mr. Jones expressed on Instagram: “These are words I hoped never to have to write. Viv was a cherished friend, a client, and someone I held dear.
“From the first moment I encountered them in 2019, I recognized that we could conjure magic together, leading me to become their manager. Their talent was extraordinary, and the radiance they brought into every setting was incredible. No one has ever made me laugh as much as Viv did. Their comedic brilliance and quick humor were unparalleled.”
He expressed his feelings of being “heartbroken and devastated” by the news, adding: “Rest in peace, my wonderful friend. You were taken from us far too soon.”
