The drag world has been rocked by the sudden death of James Lee Williams, better known as The Vivienne, who passed away this weekend at the age of 32. Williams, celebrated for winning the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, was deeply admired for their warmth, humor, and remarkable talent. The news was shared on social media by their publicist, Simon Jones, who expressed his heartbreak in a touching Instagram post. “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones wrote. “James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle,” it added.
Jones continued, “They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
The Vivienne, who was born in north Wales, captivated audiences with their unique blend of humor, wit, and fierce drag performances. From the moment Williams became a fan favorite on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, they showcased their exceptional comedic timing and stage presence. The Vivienne’s popularity soared further with appearances in shows such as Dancing on Ice and Emmerdale, and their performance as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK tour of The Wizard of Oz.
In addition to their television and stage roles, The Vivienne recently starred in the UK musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and featured in the 2020 BBC Three series The Vivienne Takes on Hollywood. The Vivienne’s distinctive drag style, described by the artist themselves as “like a scouse wife who has come into money,” combined classic glamour with sharp comedic elements.
Tributes from across the entertainment world have poured in, with fellow RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage sharing an emotional message on Instagram. “Heartbreaking, I don’t know how to say how I feel,” Visage wrote. “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.”
Other tributes included messages from Coronation Street star Antony Cotton, who described Williams as “a real joy to be around,” and Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, who posted on Instagram, “You incredible human … rest in peace. Never stop shining your beautiful light over us all.”
The news of Williams’ tragic passing came shortly after a recent police update regarding their death. Cheshire Police confirmed that officers attended an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, following reports of a sudden death on Sunday afternoon. A spokesperson stated that the circumstances of Williams’ death were not suspicious, and a file would be prepared for the coroner. The Vivienne’s publicist also asked for privacy as the family mourns.
The Vivienne’s death has left a deep impact on the UK drag community, with RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner Tia Kofi reflecting on the loss, said, “This is an incredible loss to the British drag community and to the world. Viv represented UK drag at its absolute finest on stage and screen internationally. She was a mentor, an inspiration and a friend.”
Williams, who had previously faced challenges such as a hate crime attack in 2024, will be remembered not only for their iconic drag career but also for their larger-than-life personality and enduring legacy in entertainment.
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