The beloved Drag Race UK winner, The Vivienne, passed away over the weekend, leaving behind an outpouring of love from fans, friends, and family.

The world was shocked and heartbroken on January 5 when it was confirmed that James Lee Williams, known by the drag name The Vivienne, tragically passed away at the age of 32. The Vivienne was a shining star in the world of drag, gaining immense fame as the winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.

The Impact of The Vivienne on Drag Culture

The Vivienne was a true pioneer in the world of drag, captivating audiences with her sharp wit, captivating performances, and unforgettable sense of style. Her drag name was inspired by fashion icon Vivienne Westwood, a symbol of both her passion for fashion and her unique place within the drag community.

The Vivienne has died aged 32 (Lia Toby/Getty Images)

When The Vivienne took home the crown in 2019, it was a moment that marked a milestone for UK drag, and her victory helped pave the way for future drag queens. Throughout her career, The Vivienne was not only known for her performances but also for her infectious personality and the love she shared with her fans.

Despite her fame, The Vivienne always remained grounded, and her connection to her fans was strong. Her loss has reverberated across the drag world and beyond, with tributes pouring in from all corners of the entertainment industry.

A Loving Tribute from Her Ex-Husband, David Ludford

In the wake of The Vivienne’s passing, her ex-husband, David Ludford, shared a deeply emotional tribute. The two met in Gran Canaria in 2017, and their connection was immediate. They were married in 2019 at Heaven, a popular gay nightclub in London, before eventually parting ways in 2023.

David’s tribute was filled with heartfelt memories of their six years together. He shared how their bond grew from the moment they met, highlighting how The Vivienne taught him the true meaning of love. In his statement, he expressed that their whirlwind relationship was one that he wouldn’t trade for anything.

“I feel like a tit feeling this upset and hurt because we have been fully divorced for just over a year now, but we were together for six years, and we loved each other so much,” David wrote in his post. He continued, “I’m so happy to say I not only met you, but we were together, we were husbands, and you were the biggest part of my life for such a long time. Six years is such a long time to spend 24/7 with.”

David’s words echoed a deep sense of loss, but they also highlighted the strong bond they shared, one that extended beyond their marriage. The depth of their love and the lasting impact of their time together were evident in David’s emotional farewell to The Vivienne.

The pair got married in 2019 before splitting up in 2023 (Instagram/@d.ludford)

Read David’s full tribute: Instagram Post from David Ludford

The Shock and Grief from the Drag Community and Fans

The news of The Vivienne’s passing has left the drag community in shock. Fellow Drag Race UK star, Bimini Bon Boulash, expressed their disbelief and sorrow over the tragic loss. “I’m so sorry, I’m in total shock,” Bimini wrote in a post on social media.

Drag Race judge, Michelle Visage, also joined in paying tribute to The Vivienne, describing the news as “heartbreaking.” Fans from around the world flooded social media with messages of love and grief. Many expressed their admiration for The Vivienne’s talent and legacy, recalling the joy she brought to so many with her performances, interviews, and unique drag persona.

One fan tweeted, “The Vivienne was such an inspiration to so many people. She lit up every room she entered. RIP to a true legend.”

A Look at The Vivienne’s Career and Contributions

The Vivienne’s rise to fame was a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft. She quickly became a fan favorite after winning RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, where her combination of sharp humor, fashion-forward looks, and fierce performances made her stand out from the competition.

Following her victory, The Vivienne continued to make her mark in the world of drag, regularly appearing in drag events, television shows, and live performances. She was praised for her ability to stay true to herself while also pushing the boundaries of what drag could be. Her legacy as a drag queen who was unapologetically herself will continue to inspire both current and future generations of drag performers.

The Vivienne’s contributions to the drag world were not just artistic but also social. She used her platform to raise awareness on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and mental health, speaking openly about the importance of self-love and authenticity.

For more about The Vivienne’s legacy, check out her official Instagram.

Authorities Confirmed No Suspicious Circumstances in Her Passing

The Vivienne’s death occurred near Chester, UK, and Cheshire Police have confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her passing. While details surrounding her death remain private, it is clear that her untimely death has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and fans.

As mentioned earlier, The Vivienne’s family is grieving, and her loved ones are asking for privacy during this difficult time. Her publicist, Simon Jones, said in a statement, “Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.”

Fans and Friends Mourn the Loss

Fans of The Vivienne continue to express their sadness, sharing fond memories and tributes on social media. The outpouring of love is a testament to the lasting impact she had on the world, both as a performer and as a person.

If you want to join in celebrating The Vivienne’s life, consider following the ongoing tributes and sharing your own memories of how she inspired you on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

The Legacy of The Vivienne: A Lasting Influence on Drag Culture

Although The Vivienne’s time with us was tragically cut short, her influence will be felt for years to come. As a trailblazer in the UK drag scene, she helped break barriers and establish a global fanbase for drag culture. Her success on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK opened doors for many others to follow in her footsteps, and her influence can still be seen today in the work of drag performers worldwide.

Her love for fashion, dedication to her craft, and positive impact on the LGBTQ+ community will forever be remembered. As fans continue to honor her memory, we can take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on through the performances, contributions, and love she left behind.

Conclusion: Remembering The Vivienne

The untimely death of The Vivienne at just 32 has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew and admired her. As fans and loved ones come to terms with the loss, it’s clear that she will always be remembered for her immense talent, her kind spirit, and her lasting influence on drag culture.

Her ex-husband’s tribute paints a poignant picture of their time together, offering a window into the love and admiration that existed between them. As we say goodbye to a true icon, let’s continue to celebrate The Vivienne’s legacy, ensuring that her impact on the world will never be forgotten.

Share Your Tributes

If you would like to leave your condolences or share how The Vivienne impacted your life, feel free to leave a comment below or share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #RememberingTheVivienne.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/@d.ludford