Fans and friends were shocked and saddened by the news of the Vivienne’s passing, and flocked to social media to share their heart-felt tributes to the Drag Race champion
Celebrities have flooded social media with tributes to television star and drag queen The Vivienne after her death was announced last night (January 5).
James Lee Williams, famed for winning season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, was given their name of The Vivienne because they were known for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing. Their PR manager, Simon Jones, shared the saddening news on Instagram and X. There, thousands of tributes poured in for the drag star, with many from high profile friends such as Ariana Grande.
Simon wrote: “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.”
The manager emphasised the family would not be sharing the cause of death at this time and would respect some privacy. In response, several friends including fellow Drag Race contestant Baga Chipz shared their thoughts.
Ariana shared her own tribute on her Instagram Stories. She posted a picture of The Vivienne along with three hearts. While the pair never worked together directly, they were both heavily involved with Drag Race and Viv starred as the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz, which toured in early 2024. Both celebrities took up roles within the World of Oz, and appeared to become friends through it.
Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse also remembered The Vivienne for her brave character on the show. Viv finished third in 2023 and was the first drag queen on the show.
Oti wrote: “Some news hits you harder than others and stops you in your tracks’ after news of the death was announced on Sunday evening. I absolutely loved the Viv. A beautiful human being, funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative and so warm.
“You were such an asset on Dancing On Ice, one of the greatest on Drag Race and just a phenomenal entertainer on screen and theatre.” While on the show and partnered with Colin Grafton, Viv said their appearance meant a lot, especially when drag was so “under attack.”
Other tributes included EastEnders actress Patsy Palmer, former Liberty X singer Michelle Heaton, screenwriter Russell T Davies, Rylan Clarke and Danny Beard. Drag Race judge Michelle Visage described the performer as “a beacon to so many.”
She shared a photo of them together, and wrote: “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.”
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