Former Drag Race UK winner Vivian, whose real name was James Lee Williams, has passed away, friends announced on Sunday. The talented drag artist won the inaugural series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019 and appeared on the 2022 All-Star Winners season. The cause of death remains undisclosed, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fellow drag artists and fans, including heartfelt messages from judges like Michelle Visage. Publicist Simon Jones confirmed the news on Instagram, highlighting Vivian’s warmth and immense talent. Tributes emphasized her significant impact on the British drag community and the loss felt by friends and family.
Former Drag Race UK winner Vivian has died, friends confirmed on Sunday.
Vivian won the first series of the British version of Ru Paul’s drag competition in 2019 and returned for the 2022 US All-Star Winners season.
News of the talented drag artist’s death was announced across social media. The cause has not yet been established.
Tributes poured in for the star, with fellow Drag Race co-stars including judges Michelle Visage and Tia Coffey mourning her death.
Confirming the news on Instagram, publicist Simon Jones said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved James Lee Williams, Vivian, passed away this weekend.”
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and wonderful person. Their family is saddened by the loss of a son, brother and uncle.
Former Drag Race UK winner Vivian has died, friends announced on Sunday.
“They are very proud of the great things that James has achieved in his life and career. They will not share any details publicly.
“We ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they need to grieve at this time.”
He continued, “These are words I never wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a customer, and someone I loved very much.
“From the moment I met them in 2019, I became their manager because I knew we could create magic together. Their talent is immense and the light they bring into every room is amazing. No one in my life made me laugh as much as Viv. Their comic genius and wit were unparalleled.
“I’m so proud and lucky that Viv has been such a big part of my life every day for the past five years. The tragedy is that their careers were just beginning. , found a place and career they love, excel, and grow.
“Heartbroken and devastated to hear this news. Rest in peace my wonderful friend. You left us far too soon.
Tributes poured in for the star, with Drag Race UK vs World winner Tia Coffey writing: “This is an incredible loss to the British drag community and to the world.” Viv represented the best of British drag on international stages and screens.
“She was a mentor, an inspiration and a friend. This impact will be felt deeply by all of us. We love you Viv.”
Vivian won the first series of the British version of Ru Paul’s drag competition in 2019 and will return for the 2022 National All Stars Winners season.
Confirming the news on Instagram, publicist Simon Jones wrote: “It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved James Lee Williams, Vivian, passed away this weekend.”
He continued, “These are words I never wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a customer, and someone I loved very much.”
Meanwhile, Drag Race judge Michelle Visage shared a photo of herself with Vivian on Instagram with the caption: “Heartbreaking.” I don’t know how to express my feelings.
“Dearest @thevivienne_, it takes me back to when I first started here in the UK. You were always there, always smiling, always giving, always on point.
“Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your charm. I loved it all, but most of all I loved your friendship. You were a lighthouse to so many.
“It was amazing for me to see you make your West End debut and see your dreams come true before my eyes. I’m lucky to have laughed with you.”
“I love you, darling. You will be sorely missed, my darling. May your light shine brightly forever. RIP MY ANGEL Fly high.
Coronation Street star Lisa Riley paid tribute to Vivienne, writing: “You were an incredible person…Rest in peace. May you continue to shine your beautiful light on us all.” Never stop.”
“We wish love and strength to the family. We will miss them very much.”
Tributes poured in for the star, with Drag Race UK vs World winner Tia Coffey writing: “This is an incredible loss to the British drag community and the world.”
Meanwhile, Drag Race judge Michelle Visage shared a photo of herself with Vivian on Instagram with the caption: “Heartbreaking.” I don’t know how to express my feelings
Coronation Street star Lisa Riley paid tribute to The Vivian, writing: “You were an amazing human being…Rest in peace, may you never continue to shine your beautiful light on us all.” Please don’t stop,” he wrote.
The drag artist’s shocking death comes just days after she said in a victim impact statement that when she meets strangers she hopes they “love gay people.” Ta.
The comments came after magistrates ruled last month that executioner Alan Whitfield’s one-punch attack on drag queen Williams was a hate crime.
Vivian, who won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and came third on last year’s Dancing on Ice, was targeted at a restaurant in Edge Lane on June 16 last year.
She received a “barrage of abusive language” from the defendant, who then struck her with a “heavy blow” to the left side of her face.
Liverpool Magistrates’ Court heard Vivian suffered bruises to her face and was in pain for a week, but said the six-foot-tall former rugby player was “lucky” to survive the punch.
In a personal victim statement read in court on Wednesday, The Vivian said: “As a proud gay man, I have never hidden who I am or edited who I am.” No,” he said.
Last year, she made history by becoming the first drag queen to perform on Dancing on Ice, where viewers branded her a ‘superstar’.
“I’m embarrassed to say this now that I’m 31, but I’m much more aware now that I could be attacked at any time just for living my life.
“This has caused me stress, pain and ongoing trauma.”
Last year, she made history by becoming the first drag queen to perform on Dancing on Ice, where viewers branded her a ‘superstar’.
Vivienne and her pro partner Colin Grafton were thrilled with their scores of 28.5 out of 40, followed by Ashley, Oti and Jayne with 7 and Chris with 7.5.
Oti praised The Vivienne’s first performance, saying, “If you’re going to make history, this is how you make history, congratulations!”
