James Lee Williams, known professionally as The Vivienne, has passed away at the age of 32. The Welsh-born drag performer rose to prominence after winning the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. Their passing was confirmed by their publicist, Simon Jones, who described them as an “incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.”
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The Vivienne‘s career was marked by significant achievements in the entertainment industry. In addition to their Drag Race victory, they made history as the first drag artist to compete on ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2023, finishing in third place. They also showcased their acting talents in various television appearances and starred as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK tour of The Wizard of Oz.
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Tributes have poured in from the entertainment community. RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage expressed her heartbreak, stating, “Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all.” Fellow drag artist Shea Couleé remarked, “I am in complete and utter shock. This is so devastating.”
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The Vivienne‘s influence extended beyond the stage and screen. They were known for their quick wit and comic genius that they brought into every room. Their sudden passing has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a remarkable talent who made significant contributions to the drag and entertainment communities.
And this will forever be one of my favorite videos of The Vivienne.
May she rest in peace. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YqVmPUTBrE
— juelz (@juelzxx) January 5, 2025
This doesn’t feel real. RIP The Vivienne.
Sharing one of my fave drag race moments ❤️ #TheVivienne pic.twitter.com/UsIWgJkwZb— Aston XYZ 🇵🇸 (@Love_Aston_) January 5, 2025
The Vivienne was literally the embodiment of british uk drag, such a legendary, incredible and talented queen. ❤️ RIP pic.twitter.com/N9x1s3vT9l
— paulie ⚓️ (@ratedpaulie) January 5, 2025
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true… pic.twitter.com/Kf5biayP9R
— RuPaul’s Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) January 5, 2025
As of now, no cause of death has been disclosed. The family has requested privacy during this time of grief. The Vivienne‘s legacy as a trailblazer in the drag community will be remembered and cherished by many.