The Vivienne, star of RuPaul’s Drag Race, has died aged 32 it has been announced.
Publicist Simon Jones confirmed the sad news of their death via Instagram , writing: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne – has passed this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details.
“We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
Meanwhile, Michelle Visage, host of RuPaul’s Drag Race, commented: “I don’t have the words. Utterly heartbroken.”
The Vivienne’s cause of death has not been officially confirmed.
Williams initially rose to prominence in 2015 as the UK Drag Ambassador for the American series of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
They later competed and won the first UK series of the reality show in 2019 and competed again in the seventh series, which was an All-Stars edition in 2022.
Williams also ventured into theatre, starring as The Wicked Witch of the West in 2011’s The Wizard of Oz, a role they later reprised in the West End.
Additionally, Williams showcased their incredible musical talents via their debut EP, Bitch on Heels (2022).
