The Drag Race community is mourning the loss of The Vivienne, a beloved star from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, who died at the young age of 32. A police representative has confirmed that there is no suspicion surrounding the circumstances of their death.
Born as James Lee Williams, The Vivienne gained fame by winning the debut season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, and took inspiration for their drag name from designer Vivienne Westwood.

News of The Vivienne’s passing was shared by their publicist on the evening of January 5.

Publicist Simon Jones posted on Instagram: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.

“Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.

“We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”

Fans were quick to express their shock and grief on social media, sharing tributes to the reality TV icon.

Cheshire Police have since released a statement regarding The Vivienne’s death.

The statement explains: “Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

In the wake of the news, tributes have poured in from both friends and fans alike.

Ariana Grande, known for her role in Wicked, shared a tribute on her Instagram story originally posted by Jinkx Monsoon, The Vivienne’s fellow All Stars contestant.

Monsoon posted three photos of The Vivienne along with the message: “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. I love you Viv.”

Grande added three hearts and an infinity sign to her repost of Monsoon’s message.

Fiona Campbell, Controller for BBC iPlayer & BBC Three, which broadcasts RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, shared her condolences via the BBC press office’s Instagram: “We are currently processing the deeply sad news of the passing of James Lee Williams, known to many as The Vivienne.

“We are fiercely proud of The Vivienne’s achievements, including winning the first ever series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. “Right now our thoughts are with their family and friends, the Drag Race sisterhood and their many fans.”

Sahir House, the oldest LGBTQ+ charity in the Liverpool City Region, has expressed its support for those affected by the loss of Williams. The Vivienne had previously raised awareness for the charity in their last Instagram post.

Sahir House said in a social media statement: “For more information, please email us at [email protected] or call 0151 673 0192. Let’s continue to support one another, just as The Vivienne would have wanted.”

If you are grieving and need someone to talk to, you can reach GrieveWell at (734) 975-0238 or via email at [email protected].

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