The Vivienne, first RuPaul's 'Drag Race' winner, dies at 32

The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, has passed away at the age of 32.

The news was confirmed by Vivienne's representaative, Simon Jones, on social media on Sunday.

The Vivienne was the first ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and a beloved figure in the drag community.

In a heartfelt tribute posted on Instagram by Jones, he wrote, "It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend."

He went on to say, "James was an incredibly loved, warmhearted and amazing person. 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."

"We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve," he added requesting for privacy.

The Vivienne first rose to fame in 2015 after being named the first RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Ambassador. Vivienne continued to make waves with appearances on All Stars 7 (2022) and ITV’s Dancing On Ice (2023).

It is worth mentioning that most recently The Vivienne played the Wicked Witch of the West in the West End's 2024 revival of The Wizard of Oz.