Police have released a statement regarding the sudden death of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams.
The performer was confirmed to have passed away at the age of 32 on Sunday (January 5)
The devastating news was broken by Williams’ friend and publicist Simon Jones, who took to social media to share the following statement: “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.”
In a follow-up post, Jones shared an emotional tribute, emphasizing the deep bond he shared with The Vivienne. “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client, and someone I loved very much.
“From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together, and I became their manager. Their talent was immense, and the light they brought to every room was astonishing.
“No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit were like no other. I’m so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre, Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled, and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news.
“RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
Now, officials from Cheshire Police have shared an update following the heartbreaking news.
A spokesman for Cheshire Police stated that officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, at 12:22PM on Sunday after receiving reports of a sudden death.
“Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner,” the spokesman confirmed.
A Legacy of Talent and Compassion
The Vivienne’s last public appearance came just a week before their passing, while performing in the West End musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Blackpool, where they starred as The Childcatcher.
The beloved drag performer also appeared on BBC’s Boxing Day TV special of Blankety Blank.
Days before their death, the drag performer also used their platform to urge followers to donate to SAHIR, Liverpool’s oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity.
Sharing a heartfelt Instagram post, The Vivienne wrote: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse, Liverpool’s oldest LGBT+ charity!!! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it.”
Tributes Pour In
The announcement of The Vivienne’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike.
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage expressed her heartbreak, writing: “I don’t have the words. Utterly heartbroken.”
Other tributes included messages from Brian Dowling, who commented, “Simon, this is absolutely heartbreaking,” and Emmerdale star Lisa Riley, who simply said, “Broken,” alongside crying emojis.
Fellow Drag Star Monet X Change wrote: “You were easily one of the brightest stars that I’ve ever seen shine, and with beauty beyond compare.
“I’ll cherish every single hilarious, c*nty, shady, belly laughing moment we shared together; and will take comforting joy knowing I introduced you to your massive love for In-N-Out Burgers. I love you Viv! Save a seat for me Gail!”
Ariana Grande shared her heartbreak on her Instagram story, and UK drag queen Kyran Thrax wrote: “Speechless. Sending you so much love. Rest in peace Viv, what an incredible human.”
Dean McCullough, a radio DJ and friend of The Vivienne, encouraged followers to reach out to loved ones in the wake of the tragic news. Sharing photos of their time together, McCullough wrote: “I’m lost for words. Check in on your mates. Tell your people you love them. The sky is a lot more sparkly tonight with our Viv up there. I’ll miss you girl. Love you.”
The loss of The Vivienne has left an indelible mark on the drag and LGBTQ+ communities, with fans and peers mourning the departure of a beloved figure whose talent, humor, and compassion touched countless lives.