Gayety

Tag: The Vivienne

  • Drag Star The Vivienne: Cause of Death Revealed After Shocking Loss

    Drag Star The Vivienne: Cause of Death Revealed After Shocking Loss

    The cause of death for The Vivienne, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1, has been confirmed. According to Simon Jones, The Vivienne’s manager and publicist, the 32-year-old drag queen passed away from the effects of ketamine use, which caused a cardiac arrest. Jones shared the news Monday with Attitude magazine.

    “I hope that by us releasing this information, we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body,” Jones said in a statement. “Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed.”

    Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic originally developed for surgeries, has gained popularity as a recreational drug, particularly within the queer community. While it is used medically for pain management, it also has powerful psychedelic and dissociative effects. Its use has sparked growing concerns, especially after the 2023 death of Friends star Matthew Perry, who died after consuming a lethal dose of the drug.

    The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died on January 5, 2025, in their home in Chester, U.K. Their body was discovered in the bathroom on Sunday morning, prompting an initial police investigation into the cause of death. While law enforcement initially labeled the death as having “unnatural causes,” no foul play was suspected. The coroner’s investigation is ongoing, with a final report expected by June 30, 2025.

    After the passing, Jones released a statement expressing grief and paying tribute to The Vivienne’s legacy. “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones said. “James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person. Their family is 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.”

    At the time of the death, Jones stated that the family would not be releasing further details out of respect for their privacy. The Vivienne’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans and the broader drag community. The queen’s impact extended beyond the U.K. as she became a beloved figure worldwide, particularly after competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 8, where she openly discussed her struggle with addiction.

    RuPaul, the host of RuPaul’s Drag Race, shared a tribute following The Vivienne’s passing. “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,” RuPaul said. Fellow Drag Race alum Bianca Del Rio also honored The Vivienne, writing, “Thank you for sharing your light with all of us.”

    The Vivienne’s death has sparked renewed conversations about the risks of ketamine and the increasing prevalence of its use as a recreational drug, particularly within the drag and LGBTQ+ communities. Her passing serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of awareness and caution when it comes to substance use.

    Fans and fellow drag performers continue to remember The Vivienne not only for her success on the RuPaul’s Drag Race stage but also for her warmth, authenticity, and generosity.

  • World of Wonder Announces Documentary on Late Drag Race UK Winner The Vivienne

    World of Wonder Announces Documentary on Late Drag Race UK Winner The Vivienne

    World of Wonder, the production company behind RuPaul’s Drag Race, has revealed plans for a new documentary focused on the late James Lee Williams, better known as Drag Race UK’s inaugural winner, The Vivienne. Titled Dear Viv, the documentary aims to celebrate Williams’s life and legacy, utilizing rare archival footage, deeply personal letters from fans, and new interviews with friends and colleagues, including Danny Beard, Baga Chipz, and Michael Marouli.

    The project, which has the support of Williams’s family and close friends, will provide an intimate portrait of the performer who made history as the first-ever winner of Drag Race UK. While the documentary’s release date has not been announced, it promises to highlight Williams’s remarkable contributions to the drag community and her undeniable talent.

    “We want to celebrate The Vivienne’s extraordinary life and work so everyone can experience her incredible talent, sass, and enormous heart,” said Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, co-founders of World of Wonder and executive producers of Dear Viv. “Although her stay here on Earth was far too brief, it is with tremendous admiration and affection that we share her legacy in ‘Dear Viv.’”

     

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    Williams was found dead at his home in January of this year, with a subsequent coroner’s report confirming the cause of death as “unnatural causes.” The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the drag community, with many of his fellow Drag Race UK stars and colleagues expressing their sorrow and tributes on social media.

    Baga Chipz, a fellow competitor from the first season of Drag Race UK, shared a heartfelt tribute, calling Williams “my beautiful, talented, mad, bestest friend in the whole wide world.” She described Williams not only as a sister but also as a brother, recalling their time together on the show. “You taught me the true meaning of sisterhood, but more importantly, you taught me how to do a cut crease,” Chipz wrote. “I’m sending all my love to your mama and family, me and the girls will always be there for them. I’m gonna bloody miss you, friend. Get the drinks in for me, love. I love you.”

    A vigil was held in Liverpool, Williams’s hometown, where his family issued an emotional statement remembering his life. “As a family, we are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for James, The Vivienne,” they said. “From an early age, it was evident they were destined for the stage… they were determined to pave their own way in this world. The road was not easy, but the dream never, ever changed, and James would always tell us that they would make it happen, and they did. We will miss you for an eternity, and for an eternity, we will all love you.”

    Williams was widely recognized for his charisma, quick wit, and exceptional drag performance skills, which made him a standout on the first season of Drag Race UK. His win in the inaugural season cemented his place in the hearts of fans and made him an influential figure in the global drag community.

    In addition to his Drag Race success, Williams’s career spanned across television, music, and live performances, where he became a beloved figure in the entertainment world. His distinctive style and larger-than-life personality helped shape the visibility and acceptance of drag culture.

    Dear Viv promises to offer an inside look at Williams’s journey, featuring candid reflections from those who knew him best and showcasing his incredible impact on the world of drag and beyond. The documentary is expected to be a heartfelt tribute to a star whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of drag performers.

    The announcement of Dear Viv has been met with anticipation from both fans and the drag community, eager to celebrate Williams’s life and art. As the documentary moves forward, it will undoubtedly become a touching and emotional homage to a performer whose presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

  • ‘RPDR’ The Vivienne Died from ‘Unnatural Cause’ with New Investigation Underway

    ‘RPDR’ The Vivienne Died from ‘Unnatural Cause’ with New Investigation Underway

    Local police in Cheshire, England, confirmed on Wednesday that The Vivienne, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has passed away from an “unnatural cause of death.” The 32-year-old drag performer, whose real name was James Lee Williams, was discovered in a bathroom at their home in Chorlton-by-Backford, a village near Chester, on Sunday, January 5. The cause of death is currently under investigation, as reported by BBC News.

    In a statement, local law enforcement clarified that while an investigation has been opened, there are “no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.” Cheshire Police began their inquiry immediately after the body was found, and the case has now been handed over to Cheshire Coroner’s Court in Warrington.

    Coroner Victoria Davies performed a post-mortem examination on the late drag queen’s body. The findings indicated that The Vivienne passed away due to “unnatural causes,” but further investigation is necessary to determine the exact circumstances. A formal inquest into James Lee Williams’ death was subsequently opened, with the coroner announcing that the investigation would continue until June 30.

    “Given the unnatural cause of death identified in post-mortem testing, it is appropriate for me to formally open the inquest into the death of James Lee Williams,” Davies stated during the court hearing.

    The Vivienne, known for her quick wit, stunning looks, and impeccable performances, was one of the breakout stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. As the first queen to win the British edition of the series, The Vivienne made a lasting impact on the Drag Race franchise, garnering a dedicated fan base and receiving accolades for her skill and charm on the show.

    Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from fellow Drag Race alumni and drag artists from around the world, all expressing their shock and sadness over the loss. Many took to social media to mourn the loss of the UK queen, remembering her fierce performances and her ability to light up a room both on and off the stage.

    The Vivienne’s passing has left the drag community in mourning, as fans and peers alike struggle to understand the untimely death of someone so young and full of potential. She was admired not only for her talents but also for her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Known for her sense of humor, self-confidence, and artistry, The Vivienne made a significant mark in the world of drag, becoming a role model for aspiring queens.

    In the wake of her death, many of her RuPaul’s Drag Race colleagues, including UK queens and international stars, expressed their condolences and shared stories of their time spent with The Vivienne. Fellow contestants from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and alumni from the broader Drag Race universe paid tribute to her on Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms. Fans also created memorials and shared their favorite moments from her time on the show, with many highlighting her courage in bringing a unique and authentic voice to the series.

    The Vivienne’s death has also sparked conversations within the LGBTQ+ community, with fans reflecting on the pressures and challenges faced by public figures within the community. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and support within the LGBTQ+ space, especially for those in the public eye who often face intense scrutiny.

    At the time of her death, The Vivienne was continuing her work in the drag scene, performing at various events and expanding her career in entertainment. In addition to her Drag Race win, she had appeared in numerous other television and stage productions, continuing to gain recognition as a talented and dynamic performer.

    While the investigation into her passing remains ongoing, fans, friends, and fellow drag artists are holding on to the legacy she left behind. The Vivienne’s contributions to drag culture and her role in the international success of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK will not soon be forgotten. Her death has left a void in the community, but her impact will live on through her performances, her advocacy, and the many lives she touched with her art.

    As the investigation continues, the drag community and fans alike await further details about the circumstances surrounding The Vivienne’s death, with many hoping that it will bring the clarity and closure they need in this difficult time.

  • RuPaul Pays Tribute to The Vivienne, UK’s First ‘Drag Race’ Winner, Following Her Death

    RuPaul Pays Tribute to The Vivienne, UK’s First ‘Drag Race’ Winner, Following Her Death

    RuPaul has expressed deep sorrow over the death of The Vivienne, the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, whose passing was confirmed yesterday. The news has left the Drag Race community and her fans in mourning.

    On Instagram, RuPaul shared a heartfelt tribute, writing, “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.” The post quickly garnered comments from fellow drag queens, including former Drag Race UK contestants Baga Chipz and Danny Beard. Beard, in particular, shared an emotional message, saying, “You meant the world to her!”

     

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    The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died at the age of 32. The announcement came from their publicist, Simon Jones, who wrote, “These are the words I never ever wanted to write,” signaling the heartbreak felt by those close to the performer. Details surrounding her death have not been disclosed, and the family of The Vivienne has requested privacy during this difficult time.

    The Vivienne was a trailblazer in the UK drag scene, first rising to prominence in 2015. She was appointed the UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race, a significant achievement that placed her at the forefront of the British drag community. In 2019, she competed on the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, where she emerged as the winner, earning a spot in Drag Race history.

    The Vivienne later returned to the Drag Race franchise in 2022 as part of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 7, which was the first-ever all-winners edition of the show. Her journey on Drag Race solidified her legacy, not just in the UK but also among fans worldwide.

    Beyond her Drag Race fame, The Vivienne was a multifaceted performer and entertainer. She maintained a robust presence on YouTube, where she engaged with her audience through various projects. Additionally, she made appearances at prestigious events, including award shows, and was featured on the British television program Dancing on Ice. In 2020, she took on a unique role as the narrator for the BBC Three documentary Trump in Tweets, where she humorously impersonated then-president-elect Donald Trump.

    The Vivienne’s impact on the drag world and the entertainment industry was far-reaching, and tributes to her have poured in from both within the drag community and beyond. Michelle Visage, a long-time co-host of RuPaul’s Drag Race, also expressed her sadness, honoring the legacy of the talented queen.

    The announcement of The Vivienne’s death has left many in the drag community in shock. Her winning performance on Drag Race UK showcased her sharp wit, charisma, and exceptional drag skills, which won over fans and judges alike. The Vivienne’s fierce persona and ability to entertain will be remembered by those who had the privilege of witnessing her artistry.

    The Drag Race universe, a close-knit family of performers and fans, is deeply affected by this loss. Fellow queens have shared fond memories of The Vivienne, recalling her humor, kindness, and dedication to the art of drag. For many, she represented the very spirit of RuPaul’s Drag Race—a platform where drag queens from all over the world can showcase their talents and leave an indelible mark on popular culture.

    In this time of mourning, the drag community has come together to remember The Vivienne’s lasting influence. Her legacy is not only defined by her victory on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK but by her work to elevate the art of drag in the UK and internationally. The Vivienne’s death has undoubtedly left a void in the hearts of those who admired her talent and personality.

    As fans and peers alike reflect on her contributions to the drag world, The Vivienne’s memory will continue to live on. Her talent, humor, and resilience have left a lasting impression, ensuring that she will never be forgotten in the ever-expanding legacy of RuPaul’s Drag Race.