RuPaul’s Drag Race winner The Vivienne dies aged 32
James Lee Williams was the first winner of Ru Paul's Drag Race UK
RuPaul’s Drag Race star The Vivienne has died aged 32, their publicist has said.
James Lee Williams, who performed as a drag queen, won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
Williams, who was born in Wales, adopted the drag name as they were known for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing.
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Their publicist, Simon Jones, announced the news on Sunday evening (January 5), writing that Williams was an 'incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person'.
In a post on Instagram, Jones added: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“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 please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
A cause of death has not been publicly revealed.
Jones added that Williams would be remembered for their 'immense talent' and 'the light they brought to every room was astonishing'.
The tribute went on: “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much.
“Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage also paid tribute to Williams, saying they were 'a beacon to so many'.
Alongside pictures of them together, Visage wrote on social media: “Heartbreaking, I don’t know how to say how I feel.
“My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were 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.”
As well as the UK version of Ru Paul's Drag Race, The Vivienne competed on an all-winners season of the RuPaul franchise in the US in 2022.
They were the only UK contestant for that series.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].
Niamh Shackleton