Michelle Visage heartbroken over The Vivienne's tragic death at 32
- James Lee Williams, known as The Vivienne, has died at age 32, leading to widespread mourning in the drag community.
- RuPaul and other Drag Race stars have shared heartfelt tributes on social media expressing their sorrow and remembering her talent.
- The Vivienne's legacy as a champion of creativity in the drag scene will continue to inspire future generations.
In early January 2025, the Drag Race community mourned the passing of James Lee Williams, renowned as The Vivienne, who gained fame as the winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019. The celebrated drag queen, aged 32, reportedly passed away over the weekend, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and fellow contestants across various social media platforms. RuPaul expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating that his heart was 'broken' and highlighting the impact The Vivienne had on the Drag Race universe. Tributes poured in from prominent figures associated with the show, including judge Michelle Visage who described herself as 'utterly heartbroken.' Visage reminisced about their shared experiences, expressing deep admiration for The Vivienne's talent and warmth. Other contestants, such as Bimini Bon Boulash and River Medway, also expressed shock at the news of The Vivienne's passing, discussing their fond memories of working together and the legacy she leaves behind. The Vivienne rose to prominence in the drag scene in 2015 when she became the UK Drag Ambassador for the American series of RuPaul's Drag Race, showcasing her vibrant personality and talent. Her memorable portrayal of President Trump in the show’s Snatch Game segment, characterized by striking makeup and a blonde wig, earned her notable acclaim, and she has been remembered as an iconic figure in the franchise. Her unique drag persona not only entertained audiences but also represented a distinct perspective in the drag culture. Following the announcement of her death by spokesperson Simon Jones, who remembered her as 'an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person,' the drag community reflected on the significant impact The Vivienne had on many lives. As the tributes continued to flood in, it became evident how deeply The Vivienne's contributions to drag had resonated, solidifying her status as a beloved and cherished performer. The loss of such a talented individual has left a profound void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike, sparking conversations about the importance of creativity and authenticity in the world of drag performance.