Tragic Loss: The Vivienne, Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, Passes Away at 32

In a heartfelt announcement, the entertainment world mourns the loss of James Lee Williams, widely recognized by their stage name, The Vivienne. The talented performer, who captured the crown as the first winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK,” passed away over the weekend at the age of 32. The news was confirmed by their manager, Simon Jones, although the cause of death has not been disclosed.

The Vivienne first emerged on the scene due to their comedic performances and captivating vocal impersonations, notably their portrayal of Donald Trump. Sharing their journey on the show, Vivienne opened up about struggles with substance abuse and the path to recovery, which resonated with many.

Celebrated as a quintessential 21st-century British Queen, The Vivienne earned accolades from RuPaul, who praised their unique flair in the drag industry during the show’s 2019 season finale.

Born on April 12, 1992, in Colwyn Bay, Wales, James Lee Williams relocated to Liverpool at the age of 16 to pursue a career in makeup artistry. It was there that they adopted the iconic name, inspired by the iconic designer Vivienne Westwood, and discovered a profound love for drag. In a 2020 interview with The Sunday Times, they recalled a life-changing moment: “I saw some drag queens at a club one night and was stunned. These people were getting paid to have a great night and entertain people. I knew immediately that was what I wanted to do.”

Vivienne’s legacy as a performer and an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community will undoubtedly endure, reminding us of the joy and creativity that drag brings to the world.