The world has lost a vibrant star, and the drag community is in mourning. James Lee Williams, better known as The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. The news was shared by their publicist, Simon Jones, who described Williams as “incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing.”
The Vivienne was a force of nature. With a razor-sharp wit, unmatched charisma, and the magic to bring joy wherever they went, they made an indelible mark on the drag scene and beyond. From winning the first-ever season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019 to slaying on Dancing on Ice in 2023, Viv lit up every room and stage they graced.
Their career wasn’t confined to the drag world either. Who could forget their turn as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz or their role as the Childcatcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang? They even brought their larger-than-life personality to the big screen in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the entertainment world. RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage shared, “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.” Fellow drag queen Bimini Bon Boulash echoed the heartbreak, saying the news is “truly devastating.” Tia Kofi celebrated Vivienne’s impact on UK drag, calling them a “mentor, an inspiration and a friend.”
It’s not just the drag community feeling this loss. From Coronation Street’s Antony Cotton to ITV’s Lorraine Kelly, celebrities across the spectrum have expressed their sorrow and shared fond memories of Williams.
Off-stage, The Vivienne faced challenges with courage and resilience. In January 2024, they stood tall after being the victim of a homophobic hate crime, even quipping to the court, “Luckily, I’m a 6ft ex-rugby player who can take a punch.”
Their passing leaves a void in the hearts of their fans, friends, and family. As Tia Kofi put it, “Viv represented UK drag at its absolute finest.”
James Lee Williams’s light may have been extinguished far too soon, but their legacy will live on in the joy, laughter, and inspiration they gave to so many.
Rest in peace, Viv.
