The Vivienne made their debut in the drag scene in 2015 as the UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race, eventually competing in the inaugural UK series of the show.
In 2019, The Vivienne won the series after an unforgettable lip-sync performance of Wham!’s ‘I’m Your Man’.
Expressing his sorrow, RuPaul took to Instagram to post a photo from Drag Race with the caption: “With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne—an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being.”
This tribute from RuPaul follows a heartfelt message from Drag Race judge Michelle Visage, who expressed her devastation at The Vivienne’s passing.
Visage shared several photos with The Vivienne, writing: “I don’t know how to say how I feel. 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.
“I love you my darling. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever.”
Jinkx Monsoon, The Vivienne’s co-star from All Stars, also shared heartfelt remarks, stating: “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.”
Following the announcement of The Vivienne’s death, the spokesperson described them as an ‘incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person’.
“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,” they stated, adding that no further details would be released about the death.
“We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”