Drag Superstar The Vivienne, Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, Dies at 32 – Tributes Pour in for James Lee Williams

Drag Superstar The Vivienne

James Lee Williams, widely known as The Vivienne, has passed away at the age of 32. The tragic news was announced by their publicist, Simon Jones, who described James as a "warm-hearted and amazing person." The family expressed their heartbreak over the loss and pride in James's accomplishments, while requesting privacy during this time of mourning. No further details about the cause of death have been released.

Born in North Wales, James rose to fame in 2015 as the UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race. Their talent and charisma shone brightly in 2019 when they won the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, sealing the victory with a memorable performance of Wham!’s I’m Your Man. This marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would see The Vivienne become a beloved figure in the drag and entertainment worlds.

James’s career spanned television, film, and theater. They competed in RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season seven and made it to the finals of ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2023. On stage, they showcased their versatility in roles such as the Childcatcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz. Their film and TV credits included appearances in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and the soap opera Emmerdale.

Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues, highlighting James’s impact on those who knew and admired them. RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage mourned the loss of a dear friend, calling James’s laughter, wit, and talent unforgettable. Other heartfelt messages came from stars like Antony Cotton, Lorraine Kelly, and Tia Kofi, who described The Vivienne as an inspiration and mentor to the drag community.

Despite their achievements, James faced personal challenges, including being the victim of a hate crime in 2022. They confronted the incident with resilience, demonstrating their strength and bravery. Known for their humor and creativity, The Vivienne’s drag style blended glamour with comedy, often incorporating vocal impersonations of iconic figures such as Kim Woodburn and Donald Trump.

The Vivienne’s legacy as a trailblazer in drag and entertainment will endure. Their influence extended beyond performance, serving as a beacon of joy, talent, and resilience for fans worldwide. Their passing leaves an irreplaceable void, but their contributions to the art form and the lives they touched will be remembered for years to come.