The first winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’ was 32
“RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” winner James Lee Williams, better known by their stage name The Vivienne, has died. They were 32.
Williams’ death was confirmed by their manager Simon Jones, who shared a statement on Instagram announcing that his client had passed away over the weekend.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know that our beloved James Lee Williams, The Vivienne, passed away this weekend,” the statement said. “James was an incredibly well-liked, warm-hearted and wonderful person. Their family is heartbroken over the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James has accomplished in their lives and careers. We will not release any further details. We please ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they need at this time to process and grieve.”
In a more personal follow-up statement that Jones shared shortly afterwards, he wrote: “These are words I never wanted to write. Viv was a good friend, a client and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought into every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as hard as Viv. Their comedic brilliance and quick wit were like no other.
Williams was the first-ever winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” in 2019 and went on to appear on the seventh season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.”
Michelle Visage, host and judge of “Drag Race” posted one statement on her social media saying she was heartbroken. Visage wrote: “I don’t know how to say how I feel.”
Visage continued: “We’re going back to when I came here to Britain. You were always there, always smiling, always giving, always sharp. Your laugh, your humor, your talent, your drag. I loved everything, but most of all I loved your friendship. You were a beacon to many. I loved watching you make your West End debut and seeing your dream come true before my eyes. I am the lucky one to have known and laughed with you so often.”
Jinkx Monsoon who won season 7 of “Drag Race All Stars”. wrote“I’m at a loss for words… She left her mark in our hearts and on her stages. It’s too early for a curtain call, but I know it’s a standing ovation.”
World of Wonder, the production company behind the franchise, also remembered The Vivienne. In a post they wrote: “We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of James Lee Williams, aka The Vivienne, this weekend. Her talent, humor and kindness were an inspiration. She has achieved so much in her career and will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and friends who request the time and privacy necessary to grieve.”
Born in 1992 in Colwyn Bay, Wales, Williams was also a musician and stage actor. They released their debut EP titled “Bitch” in 2022 and played The Wicked Witch of the West in a stage adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” in London’s West End in 2023.
