In the glittering world of drag, few names resonated as powerfully as The Vivienne. Known for their magnetic performances and quick wit, The Vivienne captivated audiences and set a benchmark for drag artistry.
Born James Lee Williams in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, The Vivienne carved a niche in the British drag scene. Their journey into drag began in Liverpool, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture.
Inspired by the legendary designer Vivienne Westwood, they adopted a name that exuded boldness and creativity. The Vivienne quickly became a fixture in the drag world, dazzling fans with their charisma and talent.
The Vivienne rose to prominence in 2019 as the first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Their exceptional impersonations, unforgettable runway looks, and undeniable charm made them a standout in the competition.
The victory cemented their place as a trailblazer, paving the way for British drag culture to achieve international acclaim. They became a voice of representation for LGBTQ+ artists in the UK and beyond.
However, their story extended beyond the stage lights and television cameras. The Vivienne often spoke openly about their personal struggles, including a battle with ketamine addiction.
In interviews, they credited their ex-husband, David Ludford, for supporting them through this challenging journey. Their candidness about overcoming addiction inspired countless fans facing similar battles.
In June 2023, The Vivienne faced a homophobic attack in Liverpool, shedding light on the challenges still faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Rather than retreating, they used the incident to advocate for hate crime awareness and solidarity.
Their advocacy extended further through support for LGBTQ+ charities and organizations, including HIV awareness initiatives. The Vivienne’s philanthropy was a testament to their commitment to creating an inclusive world.
Beyond activism, The Vivienne showcased their versatility as a performer. In 2023, they made history as the first drag artist to compete on Dancing on Ice, earning a third-place finish.
Their love for theatre shone in their portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz. Their performance garnered praise from both audiences and critics.
Colleagues remember The Vivienne as a beacon of positivity and joy. Michelle Visage, judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, shared, “Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag—I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all.”
In their final days, The Vivienne used their platform to rally support for Sahir House, Liverpool’s oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity. They urged followers on Instagram to donate, writing, “The work they do is incredible. £1 a month—you won’t miss it.”
This heartfelt post encapsulated The Vivienne’s enduring dedication to community and charitable causes. Their legacy of generosity and love continues to inspire countless admirers.
The community was rocked by the shocking news of The Vivienne’s passing at the age of 32 on January 5, 2025. Their publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the loss, expressing the family’s devastation.
Cheshire Police revealed no suspicious circumstances surrounding their death, with a file being prepared for the coroner. As the world mourns, fans and peers alike remember The Vivienne as an extraordinary talent taken too soon.
RuPaul paid tribute, calling them “an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being.” Michelle Visage added, “Your light will shine fiercely, forever. RIP, my angel.”
The Vivienne’s final act of kindness and their incredible legacy will remain etched in the hearts of many. Their spirit, talent, and advocacy have left an indelible mark that will endure for generations.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @thevivienne_)
