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Dear drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race a star James Lee Williamsbetter known as The Vivienne, has died they were 32.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you that our beloved James Lee Williams — The Vivienne, passed this weekend,” said the performer’s manager, Simon Joneshe wrote in a statement shared through Instagram on Sunday, January 5.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“James was a very loving, warm and wonderful person,” the publicist’s statement continued. “Their family is heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the great things James achieved in their life and career. We will not release any further details. We ask that the James family be given the time and privacy they need now to process and grieve.”
In a subsequent statement also shared through his Instagram account, Jones shared a more personal reaction to the news of the drag queen’s untimely death, writing that The Vivienne was more than a client – they were a friend.
James Lee Williams
Courtesy of James Lee Williams/Instagram“These are words I never wanted to write,” Jones said in the second statement. “Viv was a close friend, 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 each room was stunning.”
Jones went on to explain that “no one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv,” before adding that “their comic genius and quick wit is like no other.”
“I am so proud and lucky that Viv has been such a big part of my everyday life for the past 5 years,” the statement continued. “It is tragic that their career was just beginning. In the world of musical theater Viv had found a space and a career that she loved, excelled in and thrived in. I am heartbroken and disappointed with this news. RIP my great friend. You left us too soon.”
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The Vivienne’s were best known for their time on the hit reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race UK – the drag queen won the first series in 2019. Drag Race judge Michelle Face reacted to news of The Vivienne’s death, calling it “heartbreaking.”
“Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved it all but I loved your friendship most of all,” Visage wrote via Instagram on Sunday. “You were an example to so many… I love you my love. You will be so missed.”
