Who was The Vivienne? From Drag Race winner to Dancing On Ice icon as drag legend tragically dies aged 32
Vivienne gained national admiration as they triumphed on RuPaul’s Drag Race, swiftly establishing themselves as an influential figure in the drag world.
With an undeniable skill and captivating personality that left a lasting impression, they didn’t merely claim a crown; instead, they made a dramatic entrance into the drag scene, becoming an iconic figure in popular culture lore.
In 2019, they emerged as the first-place contender on the television show, and then returned to compete once more in the seventh season of the All Stars edition in 2022.
Following a celebrated and memorable ten years under the public spotlight, The Vivienne, originally known as James Lee Williams, passed away at the start of the year 2025.
Ever since their debut in 2016, The Vivienne has been a frequent guest on various television programs. They’ve appeared on shows such as Just Tattoo of Us, The Big Fat Quiz of the Year, Celebrity Juice, and Trump In Tweets.
In 2021, they impressed audiences on The Weakest Link and Apocalypse Wow, after making a lasting impression on The Great British Sewing Bee towards the end of 2020.
Alongside comedian Steen Raskopoulos, The Vivienne also shone as a co-host on the All-Star Dance Off event.
2022 saw the announcement that the versatile celebrity landed their upcoming TV part, gearing up for participation in the 2023 season of Dancing on Ice.
Throughout the run of the series, they managed to keep audiences engaged, ultimately finishing in third position during the 15th season of the BBC program.
Outside the glitzy life of drag, The Vivienne, who was born in Wales, lived in Liverpool.
In a past relationship, this drag performer was wedded to David Ludford. However, their union ended in 2023 due to the fact that they both felt ‘life intervened.’
The couple tied the knot in 2019 at the iconic London venue, Heaven.
Earlier in the year, it was given approval to hold weddings as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations.
For the very first time, an illustrious duo had their wedding ceremony at a prestigious location, making history while creating a memorable experience for not only themselves but also for the esteemed venue.
Vivienne began her drag journey in the nightclubs of Liverpool, naming herself after a deep admiration for designer Vivienne Westwood’s fashion.
News of the talented drag artist’s death was announced across social media on Sunday.
A cause is yet to be established and the post asked for privacy and space to grieve.
Many paid tribute to the celebrity following their death, with fellow Drag Race cast members such as judge Michelle Visage and Tia Kofi expressing their sorrow.
According to a post on Instagram by Simon Jones PR, we are deeply saddened to share the news that our cherished individual, James Lee Williams, affectionately known as The Vivienne, has sadly passed away over the weekend.
James was deeply cherished, full of kindness, and simply outstanding. His family is devastated beyond words by the passing of their child, sibling, and relative.
They take great pride in the remarkable accomplishments James made during his life and career, but we won’t be sharing any more specifics.
Let’s grant James’s family some time and space for reflection and mourning.
He went on to say: ‘I’ve never wished to pen these sentences. Viv was not just a dear friend, but also a valued client, and someone I held in high regard.’
Since I first crossed paths with them in 2019, I sensed our potential for making something extraordinary together, so I took on the role of their manager. Their talent was nothing short of immense, and they managed to brighten every space they entered. No one has ever made me laugh as much as Viv did throughout my life. Their comedic brilliance and sharp wit were unparalleled.
Over the past five years, Viv has been an integral and cherished presence in my daily life, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have shared this journey with them. It’s heart-wrenching to think that their remarkable career was just getting started. In the realm of musical theatre, they discovered a niche where their passion flourished, and their talent truly shone.
‘I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.’
A flood of tributes came pouring in for the celebrity, with Tia Kofi, winner of Drag Race UK vs The World, expressing: ‘This is a profound loss not only for the British drag community but also for the world. Vivien represented the pinnacle of UK drag both on stage and worldwide on screen.’
She served as our guide, source of motivation, and companion. Her absence will resonate profoundly within us. I love you, Viv.
In the meantime, Michelle Visage, one of the judges from RuPaul’s Drag Race, posted pictures of herself and The Vivienne on Instagram, expressing her feelings in this way: “I am at a loss for words. It’s so hard to put into words how I feel.
Dearest @thevivienne_, our friendship stretches back to when I first came to the United Kingdom. You’ve always been a source of laughter, generosity, and wit, consistently at your best.
I adored every aspect of you – your humor, intelligence, skill, and unique spirit. But what I cherished the most was our friendship. You shone brightly as a guiding light for many.
It was truly awe-inspiring for me to watch you bring your West End dream to life, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of your journey, sharing laughter with you on numerous occasions.
My dearest, I deeply cherish you. Your absence will leave a profound void in my heart. May your spirit illuminate the skies and endure eternally. Rest In Peace, my guardian angel, soar high.
Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of a cherished friend and fellow cast member.
‘I will love you forever Viv,’ Cheryl said.
Actress Lisa Riley paid a touching tribute to The Vivienne, expressing: “What an extraordinary person you were… May you find eternal rest while continuing to brightly illuminate us all with your radiant light.
‘Love and strength to all your family, we will miss you so much.’
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2025-01-06 00:33