James Lee Williams, best known as drag artist The Vivienne, has died at the age of 32, his public relations representative announced Sunday.
Simon Jones posted on Instagram on Sunday: “It is with great sadness that we tell you that our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne passed away this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loving, warm and wonderful person. His family is deeply saddened by the loss of their son, brother and uncle. James is very proud of the amazing things he has accomplished in his life and career.
“We will not release any further details. We please request that James’s family be given time and privacy to process and grieve.”
Williams, whose drag name comes from her love of fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, rose to prominence after becoming the UK drag ambassador for the US series of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2015.
He won the first UK series of the show in 2019 after lip-synching in the final to a song from Wham!’s I’m Your Man!
Williams later appeared on the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and was a finalist on the UK series of Dancing on Ice in 2023, finishing in third place.
The drag artist recently played the Childcatcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang on tour and previously appeared as the Wicked Witch of the West in the revival of the Wizard of Oz musical.
Tributes have been paid to Williams on social media.
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage said: “Heartbreaking, I don’t know how to explain how I feel.
“My dear @thevivienne_ we have been dating since the moment I started coming here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point.
“Your laughter, your intelligence, your talent, your pull. I liked it all very much but I liked your friendship most of all. You were a mentor to many.”
Coronation Street star Antony Cotton said the news was “incredibly sad”, adding: “James was a real pleasure to be around. We loved him, x.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash wrote on Instagram: “I’m sorry I’m in complete shock.”
Emmerdale actor Lisa Riley described Williams as an “incredible human being” who will be missed.
He wrote on Instagram: “You are an incredible human being… may your soul rest in peace. Never stop shining your beautiful light on us all.
“Love and strength to your entire family. We will miss you very much.”