James Lee Williams, known as drag artist The Vivienne, has died at the age of 32, his public relations representative announced on Sunday.
Simon Jones posted on Instagram on Sunday: “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.
“We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
Williams, whose drag name came from their love of the fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, rose to prominence after becoming the UK drag ambassador for the US series of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2015.
They won the first UK series of the show in 2019 after lip-syncing in the final to I’m Your Man, a song by Wham!
Williams subsequently appeared in the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and was a finalist in the UK series of Dancing on Ice in 2023, finishing in third place.
The drag artist most recently played the Childcatcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang on tour and previously appeared as the Wicked Witch of the West in the revival of the Wizard of Oz musical.
Tributes have been paid to Williams on social media.
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage said: “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.”
Coronation Street star Antony Cotton said the news was “unbelievably sad”, adding: “James was a real joy to be around. We loved him, x.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash wrote on Instagram: “I’m so sorry I’m in total shock.”
Emmerdale actor Lisa Riley described Williams as an “incredible human” who will be missed.
She wrote on Instagram: “You incredible human … rest in peace. Never stop shining your beautiful light over us all.
“Love and strength to all your family. We will miss you so much.”