The entertainment world is mourning the sudden loss of James Lee Williams, widely known as The Vivienne, at just 32 years old.
As the winner of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, The Vivienne’s charisma and talent made them a beloved figure in the drag community and beyond.
Born in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, Williams moved to Liverpool at 16, where they immersed themselves in the vibrant drag scene.
Their drag persona, The Vivienne, was inspired by their love for Vivienne Westwood’s avant-garde fashion, which shaped their unique style.
Behind the glamour, Williams faced challenges, including a battle with ketamine addiction that threatened their life in their early 20s.
In a candid interview, Williams once revealed how the addiction led to multiple hospitalizations and a grim warning from doctors that they wouldn’t live past 30.
Determined to rebuild their life, The Vivienne sought support from the NHS’s Armistead Centre and leaned on their then-husband, David Ludford.
By 2017, Williams had overcome their addiction and emerged as a beacon of hope for many within the LGBTQ+ community.
In December 2019, Williams and Ludford made headlines as the first couple to marry at London’s iconic Heaven nightclub.
The couple’s union was celebrated by fans, symbolizing love and commitment within the drag world, but they later separated in 2023.
Despite parting ways, their bond remained strong, and they frequently expressed mutual respect and admiration for each other.
The Vivienne’s career flourished post-Drag Race, cementing their status as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
In 2023, Williams made history as the first drag performer to compete on ITV’s Dancing On Ice, securing a third-place finish.
This milestone showcased their versatility and determination to break barriers, earning widespread acclaim.
The Vivienne also became an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, using their platform to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.
Tragically, on January 5, 2025, Cheshire Police were called to an address near Chester, UK, where James Lee Williams was found unresponsive.
Authorities later confirmed the death of a 32-year-old man but stated there were no suspicious circumstances.
The news shocked the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans, peers, and celebrities worldwide.
Among the heartfelt messages was a touching tribute from their ex-husband, David Ludford, who shared his grief and memories of Williams.
In a social media post, Ludford wrote, “My heart literally sank when I got the call. Never in a million years did I think I’d write this about James Lee Williams.”
He reflected on their first meeting in Gran Canaria in 2017, their whirlwind romance, and their profound impact on each other’s lives.
“He made me feel love and showed me what it was really like to love someone,” Ludford shared, emphasizing the depth of their connection.
Ludford continued, “You will always have a place in my heart. Going to miss you more than people will ever know. Sleep tight, angel.”
The Vivienne’s sudden passing leaves a void in the drag community and the broader world of entertainment.
Plans to honor Williams’s legacy are underway, with Dancing On Ice announcing a tribute during their upcoming show.
Colleagues, including professional skater Colin Grafton, have expressed their sorrow, praising Williams for their authenticity and passion.
As fans and peers grieve this tremendous loss, The Vivienne’s journey from small-town performer to global drag icon remains a testament to resilience and authenticity.
The legacy of The Vivienne will continue to inspire, reminding the world of the power of living boldly and unapologetically.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @thevivienne_) (Instagram/@d.ludford)
