James Lee Williams, known as The Vivienne, who became famous on RuPaul’s Drag Race has died at the age of 32, and their final post post on their social media showed their true charitable nature
James Lee Williams posted their last Instagram post on January 2, showing their charitable nature. Williams, who became famous on RuPaul’s Drag Race as The Vivienne , has tragically passed away at age 32, according to their management.
In their last Instagram post just three days ago on Thursday, The Vivienne’s called for people to donate £1 a month to Liverpool charity Sahir. They wrote: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it.”
Sahir is Liverpool City Region’s oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV support charity providing practical and emotional support to LGBTQ+ people and people affected by HIV.
The charity has recently launched its latest fundraising campaign, “Pound for Sahir”, inviting the community to unite behind the idea that small contributions from many can create a significant impact. The post was shared with their 622,000 followers. Fans are now utilising the comments to leave their condolences.
One wrote on the post “Oh Viv what a hole you have left, but a legacy even greater. We will miss your magic, thank you for every laugh you ever gave us,” alongside a red heart emoji.
Another wrote: “I’m in shock and in tears… I just wonder why?”
Williams’ management took to social media to announce their tragic death.
The post 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 Vivienne initially rose to fame in 2015 as the UK Drag Ambassador for the American series of RuPaul’s Drag Race.
They later competed and won the first UK series of the reality show in 2019 and competed again in the seventh series, which was an All-Stars edition in 2022.
Williams showcased their incredible musical talents via their debut EP, B**ch on Heels (2022).
They went on to appear in the critically acclaimed, award-winning medical drama This is Going to Hurt, based on Adam Kay’s memoir of the same name. They were the first drag performer to compete on Dancing on Ice in 2023, finishing in third place.
The Vivienne was on our screens over the Christmas period as a guest on the BBC ’s Blankety Blank Christmas special.
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