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.
