Tributes have poured in following the tragic passing of James Lee Williams, largely known as The Vivienne.
The celebrated drag performer and winner of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK passed away at the age of 32.
The news was confirmed by Williams’s publicist, Simon Jones, in a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Sunday evening.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones wrote.
“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.”
The statement concluded with a plea for privacy, asking that Williams’s family be given the time and space they need to grieve.
Following the announcement, tributes flooded social media from fans, friends, and fellow performers.
Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, wrote: “Heartbreaking. I don’t know how to say how I feel. My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK.
“You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many.
“Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes, I’m the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times.
“I love you my darling. You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL fly high.”
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Fellow Drag Star Monet X Change wrote: “You were easily one of the brightest stars that I’ve ever seen shine, and with beauty beyond compare.
“I’ll cherish every single hilarious, c*nty, shady, belly laughing moment we shared together; and will take comforting joy knowing I introduced you to your massive love for In-N-Out Burgers. I love you Viv! Save a seat for me Gail!”
Ariana Grande shared her heartbreak on her Instagram story, and UK drag queen Kyran Thrax wrote: “Speechless. Sending you so much love. Rest in peace Viv, what an incredible human.”
Danny Beard wrote on Instagram that there is now “a piece missing” following Williams’ death.
“Viv was a proper entertainer, she made people she didn’t know feel like they were seen. I’ve always admired that in her. She connected with people and that’s something you can’t buy,” they wrote in part of their message.
Jinkz Monsoon, who won the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2013, said: “I don’t entirely have words… She has made her mark in our hearts and on her stages. It’s too soon for a curtain call but I know it’s a standing ovation. I love you Viv.”
Beyond the world of drag, Williams showcased their acting chops on stage, most recently playing the Childcatcher in a touring production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
They also portrayed the Wicked Witch of the West in a revival of The Wizard of Oz. Plans had been announced for Williams to reprise their role as the Childcatcher in 2025.
Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this difficult time.
