JAMES Lee Williams, known by his stage name The Vivienne and winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, has passed away at the age of 32, publicist Simon Jones confirmed on Sunday, January 5.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones shared on social media platform X. “James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.”
Born in Wales, The Vivienne gained fame in 2015 when she became the UK Drag Ambassador for the American TV series RuPaul’s Drag Race. Her stage name was inspired by renowned English fashion designer Vivienne Westwood.
Tributes have poured in for The Vivienne. RuPaul’s Drag Race posted on X, “Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on.”
Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, wrote on Instagram, “I don’t know how to say how I feel. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever.”