The Vivienne: RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and musical theater star has died aged 32

James Lee Williams, better known as drag queen The Vivian, has died at the age of 32.

Publicist Simon Jones said the actor, who died at the weekend, was “an incredibly loving, warm-hearted and wonderful person”.

The Vivian won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.

Mr Jones asked for privacy for the star’s family and said no further details would be released at this time.

RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage said the news of Vivienne’s death was “heartbreaking”.

Writing on social mediaVisage wrote: “Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved it all but I loved your friendship the most.

“You were a light to so many… I love you my dear. You will be greatly missed.”

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash also wrote on Instagram, “I’m so sorry I’m in complete shock”.

Cheryl The Queen – who went by Cheryl Hole – took part in the same series of Drag Race as The Vivienne. She also shared the statement on Instagram, writing: “I will love you forever.”

Mr Jones said they were words he “never wanted to write”.

“No one in my life has ever made me laugh as much as Viv,” he said.

“I am so proud and blessed that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the past 5 years.”

Williams was born in Wales, and adopted a drag name due to his penchant for dressing up as Vivienne Westwood.

As well as winning Drag Race, The Vivian came third in the 2023 edition of Dancing on Ice, and performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in the UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard of Oz musical.

The actor reprized the role in the West End at the Gillian Lane Theater last year.

In an Instagram post On Boxing Day, The Vivian put up a series of photos, titled: “24′ Highlights.”

“What a year it’s been. Here’s to reaching new heights and achieving dreams at 25,” the star wrote before signing off: “Viv xxx.”

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