Getty ImagesJames Lee Williams, better known as drag queen The Vivienne, has died aged 32.
Publicist Simon Jones said the performer, who died over the weekend, was “an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person”.
The Vivienne starred in musical theatre and TV productions, and won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
The show paid tribute to the drag star on social media, saying they were “deeply saddened” by the news of the performer’s death.
“She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true champion”.
“Her talent, humour, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration,” the show said in a post on X.
“Our hearts go out to her family and fans during this difficult time.”
The show’s judge Michelle Visage also called the star “a beacon to so many”.
Writing on social media, Visage called the news “heartbreaking”, adding: “My darling The Vivienne, we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK.”
“You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point.”
“Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all.”
Getty ImagesDrag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash also reacted to the news, writing on Instagram: “I’m so sorry I’m in total shock”.
Cheryl The Queen – who used to go by Cheryl Hole – took part in the same series of Drag Race as The Vivienne. The performer wrote on Instagram: “I will love you forever Viv.”
Williams was born in Wales, and adopted the drag name because of a love for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing.
As well as winning Drag Race, The Vivienne came third on the 2023 edition of Dancing On Ice, and performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard Of Oz musical.
Getty ImagesThe performer reprised the role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre last year.
The Vivienne also competed on an all-winners season of the RuPaul franchise in the US in 2022, and starred in BBC Three show The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood in 2020.
In an Instagram post on Boxing Day, The Vivienne put up a series of photos, captioning it: “24′ highlights.”
“What a year it’s been. Here’s to reaching new heights and achieving dreams in 25,” the star wrote, before signing off: “Viv xxx.”
Mr Jones said words announcing The Vivienne’s death were ones he “never ever wanted to write”.
“No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other,” he said.
“I’m so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years.”
Mr Jones asked for privacy for the star’s family and said no further details would be released at this time.
Fiona Campbell, BBC controller of youth audience, called the news “deeply sad”, adding: “We are fiercely proud of The Vivienne’s achievements, including winning the first ever series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
“Right now our thoughts are with their family and friends, the Drag Race sisterhood and their many fans.”
This article was originally published at www.bbc.com
