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The Vivienne’s Dad Breaks Down in Tears Accepting Icon Award

BBG News

In simpler terms, Vivienne’s father made an emotional homage to their child, as the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK received an Icon Award.

The drag queen, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died suddenly last month at the age of 32.

At the initial Metro Pride Awards on Wednesday, which took place at the Grand Connaught Rooms, The Vivienne received the Icon Award for their pioneering work in drag, promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, and advocating for the community.

In the ceremony, it was The Vivienne’s father, Lee, who graciously received the award instead. As he began to speak, emotions overcame him, reflecting on his sorrowful feelings.

Lee stated, “James cherished his involvement in the entertainment industry, and I’m certain he would have delighted in tonight’s happenings.

Last year, when he was nominated for the Metro Rising Star Award, he felt proud and grateful. Although it’s a mixed emotion to be here without him now, being in this venue held great significance for him. In fact, being under this roof meant the world to him.

I’d like to express my gratitude to all of you for the tremendous affection and backing you’ve shown towards James, making last night unforgettable. A heartfelt thank you!

OR

A big thank you to everyone who contributed to an incredible evening for James with their immense love and support. Thank you so much!

In 2019, The Vivienne gained widespread recognition on a global scale following her victory in the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

However, while ascending to prominence, Williams struggled with substance abuse – a challenge they had previously spoken openly about.

Last month’s shocking news about their untimely demise stirred a wave of sorrow, as numerous relatives, acquaintances, and admirers convened in their adopted city, Liverpool, to honor them by releasing green balloons skyward to the melodies of The Vivienne’s preferred tunes from Wicked.

Recently, a funeral was held in Denbighshire, North Wales, where several mourners, including Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Kim Woodburn, Jade Thirlwall, Aston Merrygold, and Claire Sweeney, paid their respects.

The regal items, the crown and scepter that ‘Vivienne’ earned on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, were brought into the church prior to her coffin, accompanied by her family and numerous celebrities.

In that gathering, I proudly donned green attire, and some gentlemen sported Vivienne Westwood emblems pinned neatly on their suit lapels.

Floral tributes in the hearse read ‘Vivienne’, ‘James’ and ‘Son’.

In my latest design, I incorporated a whimsical touch by arranging a cluster of vibrant purple blooms that resemble enchanting witch’s hats – a delightful nod to the magical world of “The Wizard of Oz.

Williams, born in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, first encountered drag through watching Lily Savage on television, marking a significant early influence in their life.

In a “small pond yet swimming with giants” metaphor, this individual hailing from Wales decided to make a leap at age 16. They ventured to Liverpool to chase their dreams in the realm of makeup artistry. Their initial steps were taken on the beauty counter at Debenhams.

They acquired their nickname “The Vivienne” at that location, as they adopted an entire wardrobe from Vivienne Westwood and cultivated their growing interest in drag by socializing with friends during evening outings, which ignited their love for it.

Williams shot to wider fame after winning the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

In 2022, they participated in the seventh series of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, and in 2023, they came in third place on Dancing on Ice.

In the course of her professional journey, The Vivienne participated in a special edition of the RuPaul franchise in the U.S. during 2022, making her the lone representative from the UK in that particular season.

In addition, they were featured in the BBC Three series “The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood” during 2020, and made an appearance on Channel 4’s “Celebrity Hunted for Stand Up To Cancer” in the year 2022.

This month, I was eagerly anticipating my return to the stage for “The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” musical, where I would embody the enigmatic character of the Childcatcher, as part of Vivienne’s tour.

It was Simon Jones, Williams’ publicist, who shared the sad news that they had passed away. He referred to Williams as a deeply cherished individual and an extraordinary person.

Tributes quickly poured in from co-stars, friends and loved ones.

Actress from EastEnders, Patsy Palmer posted on her platform (originally known as Twitter): “Shocking information. May you rest peacefully, lovely spirit. Thank you for being who you were.

On Instagram, Oti Mabuse expressed her heartfelt tribute: “Certain pieces of news can strike you more profoundly than others and momentarily halt your progression. I had an immense affection for The Viv, who was not only funny, kind, innovative, artistic, and radiantly warm but also a trailblazer.

Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, expressed her sorrow by penning down that the demise of Williams was deeply saddening.

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2025-02-27 02:19

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