James Lee Williams, known to many as The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. The news, confirmed by publicist Simon Jones, comes as a shock to both the entertainment community and fans worldwide. Williams gained fame as the winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, becoming a beloved figure admired for both talent and charisma.
Tributes have poured in for The Vivienne, with RuPaul’s Drag Race expressing their sorrow on social media, stating, “She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity.” Judge Michelle Visage highlighted Williams’ joyous spirit and lasting impact on those around her. Other Drag Race stars, including Bimini Bon Boulash and Cheryl Hole, shared their shock and affection, emphasizing the deep personal connections formed during their time together.
John Hyland from the LGBTQ+ charity Sahir noted The Vivienne’s philanthropic spirit, highlighting her recent support for their charitable campaigns just days before her passing. He acknowledged the profound influence she had within the community and how her legacy would be honored through ongoing support for the cause she championed.
Born in Wales, Williams’ drag persona was inspired by her admiration for fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. In addition to her stellar performance on Drag Race, The Vivienne showcased her versatility by competing on Dancing On Ice where she finished third and performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a touring production of The Wizard of Oz.
In a heartfelt statement, Jones lamented the loss of a true comedic talent, emphasizing the joy she brought to so many lives. Fiona Campbell from the BBC also expressed her sadness, celebrating The Vivienne’s remarkable achievements and the inspiration she provided to fans and fellow artists alike.
As the community mourns this profound loss, it is important to remember The Vivienne not just for her talent, but for her warm heart and commitment to advocacy in the LGBTQ+ community. Her spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of performers and fans.
The hope is that the legacy she left behind will encourage others to embrace their identities and pursue their ambitions with the same passion that The Vivienne exemplified in her life and career.