James Lee Williams, best known by their stage name The Vivienne, a trailblazer in the drag community and a beloved entertainer, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. The announcement, shared by their spokesperson, marks a heartbreaking loss for fans and the entertainment industry alike.
In a statement released earlier today, the spokesperson expressed the family’s devastation:
“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. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
A Trailblazer in Drag Culture and Entertainment
James Lee Williams first gained widespread recognition in 2015 as the UK Drag Ambassador for the iconic show RuPaul’s Drag Race. Their exceptional charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent propelled them into the spotlight, leading to their groundbreaking win in the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
The Vivienne captivated audiences with their performances, including a memorable lip-sync to Wham!’s “I’m Your Man” in the season finale. The performer’s drag persona drew inspiration from designer Vivienne Westwood, reflecting an appreciation for bold, artistic statements both on and off the stage.
Beyond their drag success, The Vivienne showcased their versatility by placing third in the 2023 season of Dancing on Ice, earning praise for their commitment and dazzling performances.
Remembering The Vivienne’s Impact
Tributes poured in from friends, fans, and colleagues mourning the loss of a unique talent. Publicist Simon Jones, who also managed The Vivienne, described the performer as a dear friend and an extraordinary individual.
“These are words I never ever wanted to write,” Jones shared in an emotional Instagram post. “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 as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit were unmatched. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
Fans have also taken to social media to honor The Vivienne’s legacy. Many highlighted their courage, humor, and ability to spread joy. One fan wrote, “The Vivienne wasn’t just a drag icon; they were a beacon of positivity. This is a devastating loss.”
A Lasting Legacy
Born in Wales, The Vivienne brought a distinctive blend of humor, glamour, and heart to every endeavor. Their impact on drag culture and the broader entertainment world will be remembered as a testament to their creativity and passion.
As the family navigates this difficult time, fans around the globe continue to celebrate The Vivienne’s life and the indelible mark they left on the world. The performer’s legacy will live on through their work, inspiring future generations of artists and drag performers.
