The Vivienne, known for her role in RuPaul's Drag Race UK, has died at the age of 32.
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The Vivienne at RuPaul's DragCon at the Los Angeles Convention Center on May 13, 2022, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Chelsea Guglielmino/Getty Images) |
James Lee Williams, widely known as drag queen The Vivienne, has passed away at the age of 32.
Publicist Simon Jones described the performer, who died over the weekend, as "an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person."
The Vivienne made history as the winner of the first season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019.
Jones has requested privacy for the star's family and mentioned that no additional details will be shared at this time.
RuPaul's Drag Race judge Michelle Visage expressed her sorrow over The Vivienne's death, calling the news "heartbreaking."
Visage shared on social media: "Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many... I love you my darling. You will be so missed."
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RuPaul's Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash also expressed her shock and sorrow on Instagram, writing: "I'm so sorry, I'm in total shock."
Cheryl The Queen, who competed alongside The Vivienne in the same series of Drag Race, also shared her tribute on Instagram: "I will love you forever Viv."
Mr. Jones, the publicist, shared that these were words he "never ever wanted to write," adding: "No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years."
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The Vivienne attends RuPaul's Los Angeles DragCon at the Los Angeles Convention Center. |
Williams, originally from Wales, chose the drag name The Vivienne due to his admiration for Vivienne Westwood's clothing.
In addition to winning RuPaul's Drag Race UK, The Vivienne achieved third place in the 2023 season of Dancing On Ice. The performer also portrayed the Wicked Witch of the West during a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard of Oz musical, later reprising the role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
In an Instagram post shared on Boxing Day, The Vivienne reflected on the year's highlights, writing: "What a year it's been. Here's to reaching new heights and achieving dreams in 25." The post concluded with "Viv xxx."
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