British drag star James Lee Williams, known professionally as The Vivienne, has died at the age of 32.
Williams shot to international fame as the winner of the first UK version of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2019, and became the first drag performer to compete on Britain’s Dancing on Ice in 2023.
Their death was confirmed early on Monday morning.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne – has passed away this weekend,” Simon Jones PR posted.
“James was an incredible 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.”
Drag Race judge Michelle Visage let tributes to Williams.
“I don’t have the words. Utterly heartbroken,” Visage posted.
Pussycat Dolls star Ashley Roberts wrote: “I can’t believe this. This is heartbreaking news.”
Liverpool-based Williams, who used they/them pronouns, more recently competed in the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars in 2022.
