James Lee Williams, known to fans as The Vivienne, has tragically passed away at the age of 32. Williams was the first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
The news of their death was confirmed by their manager, Simon Jones, who shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram. “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams, The Vivienne, has passed away this weekend,” the statement read. “James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted, and amazing person. Their family is heartbroken by the loss of their son, brother, and uncle. They are so proud of all that James achieved in life and in their career. We will not be releasing any further details. We kindly ask for privacy as the family processes this loss.”
Jones later shared his own personal tribute, describing Williams as both a close friend and a cherished client. “These are words I never wanted to write,” he said. “Viv was a close friend, someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together. Their talent was immense, and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one made me laugh like Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit were unmatched.”
Williams rose to fame after winning RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, later competing in the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.
Michelle Visage, host and judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, expressed her heartbreak over the loss. “I don’t know how to say how I feel,” Visage wrote. “We go back to when I started coming over to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag – I loved it all, but most of all, I loved your friendship. You were a beacon to so many.”
Jinkx Monsoon, winner of Drag Race All Stars season 7, shared a moving tribute as well: “I don’t entirely have words… She has made her mark in our hearts and on her stages. It’s too soon for a curtain call, but I know it’s a standing ovation.”
World of Wonder, the production company behind RuPaul’s Drag Race, also honored Williams, stating, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of James Lee Williams, AKA The Vivienne, this weekend. Her talent, humor, and kindness were an inspiration. She achieved so much in her career and will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and friends, who request time and privacy to grieve.”
Williams, born in 1992 in Colwyn Bay, Wales, was not only a drag performer but also a musician and stage actor. In 2022, they released their debut EP, Bitch, and in 2023, they made their West End debut, playing the Wicked Witch of the West in a stage adaptation of The Wizard of Oz in London.
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