The entertainment industry was shaken by the sudden passing of The Vivienne, the first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
The 32-year-old drag icon, whose real name was James Lee Williams, was found dead in the bathroom of their Cheshire home on January 5, 2024.
A recent inquest hearing has now confirmed that their cause of death was deemed ‘unnatural,’ though the specific details remain undisclosed.
The Cheshire Coroner’s Court held a brief two-minute hearing, during which coroner’s officer Amanda Edgar stated
that Williams’ body was discovered at their residence in Chorlton-by-Backford.
Their father, Lee Williams, was responsible for identifying the body to authorities.
Despite the unusual nature of their passing, police have confirmed that no suspicious circumstances were involved.
Senior Area Coroner Victoria Davies has adjourned the inquest until June 30, allowing further investigations into the cause of death. A review hearing is scheduled for May 5.
A Legacy of Talent and Struggles
The Vivienne was widely celebrated as a trailblazer in the world of drag, gaining international fame after winning RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. They quickly became a household name, appearing on multiple television programs and live performances. In 2022, they competed in RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and later finished third on Dancing On Ice in 2023.
Despite their undeniable success, The Vivienne was open about their personal struggles, including battles with drug addiction. In past interviews, Williams admitted that recreational drug use spiraled out of control, once stating, “It was party drugs – but I couldn’t leave the drugs at the party.” They eventually sought treatment at The Armistead Centre in Liverpool, a decision that helped them regain stability in their personal and professional life.
Shockwaves Through the Drag Community
News of The Vivienne’s passing led to an overwhelming outpouring of grief from fans, fellow performers, and celebrities. A vigil was held in Liverpool on January 12, where hundreds gathered to honor their memory, releasing green balloons into the sky while listening to their favorite songs from Wicked.
Their funeral took place in Denbighshire, North Wales, where close friends and family gathered to say their final goodbyes. Several high-profile figures attended, including Steps singer Ian “H” Watkins, reality TV personality Kim Woodburn, pop star Jade Thirlwall, and actors Aston Merrygold and Claire Sweeney.
A special tribute was made during the service, as the crown and scepter The Vivienne won on Drag Race UK were carried into the church alongside their coffin. Many mourners honored them by wearing green—a color they loved—and Vivienne Westwood badges in tribute to their stage name.
Among the floral tributes placed at the funeral were arrangements spelling out “Vivienne,” “James,” and “Son.” Another touching tribute was a witch’s hat made of purple flowers, symbolizing their love for The Wizard of Oz, one of their favorite productions.
A Career Cut Short
Before their passing, The Vivienne was set to embark on another exciting career move. They had been cast as the Childcatcher in the touring production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, a role that would have further cemented their place in the entertainment world.
Born in Colwyn Bay, North Wales, Williams was inspired by drag legend Lily Savage, which sparked their interest in performing. Moving to Liverpool at 16, they initially worked as a makeup artist at a Debenhams beauty counter. It was here they earned the nickname “The Vivienne” due to their love for Vivienne Westwood fashion, and their passion for drag soon flourished.
Their breakthrough came when they became RuPaul’s UK Drag Ambassador, a role that led them to compete in the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK—which they went on to win. Their victory opened doors to numerous opportunities, including starring in the BBC Three show The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood and participating in Celebrity Hunted for Stand Up To Cancer.
Tributes from the Entertainment Industry
Following their passing, heartfelt tributes poured in from fellow entertainers and fans alike.
Michelle Visage, a judge on Drag Race UK, described The Vivienne’s death as “heartbreaking” and praised them for their impact on the drag community.
Patsy Palmer, EastEnders actress, expressed her sorrow on social media, writing: “What devastating news. Sleep easy, beautiful soul. Thank you for being you.”
Oti Mabuse, professional dancer and TV star, shared her grief on Instagram, saying: “Some news hits you harder than others. I absolutely loved The Viv. A beautiful human being, funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative, and so warm.”
The full inquest on June 30 is expected to provide more clarity regarding the circumstances of their passing. Until then, The Vivienne’s memory continues to be celebrated by fans and peers who admired their talent, resilience, and contribution to the LGBTQ+ and drag communities.
Their legacy will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations of performers and artists to embrace their true selves, just as The Vivienne did.
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