RuPaul says heart ‘broken’ after The Vivienne’s death
Getty ImagesRuPaul says his heart is “broken” following the death of James Lee Williams, better known as drag queen Vivienne.
“I join the entire drag community in mourning the passing of Vivienne, a talented queen and a lovely person,” he wrote on Instagram.
Vivian, 32, who won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, died last weekend.
Tributes to the drag star poured in on social media, with the show saying they were “deeply saddened” by the news.
In an earlier post by What it means to be a true champion.”
It added: “Our thoughts are with her family and fans at this difficult time.”
Like many of the drag queens on the show, Vivian is unapologetically unique and hilariously forthright, but there’s something more to her: energy.
Described by judge Michelle Visage as “the best Snatch Game character in the show’s history,” it’s Vivian’s in-game impression of President Trump – pouty lips, orange makeup and a floppy blonde wig—earning her the win for the show.
The victory cemented Vivienne’s influence in the drag world and she has had a thriving career in television and musical theatre.
“lighthouse”
Visage described the star as “a beacon to many.”
The show’s judge wrote on social media that the news was “heartbreaking”, adding: “My dear Vivienne, we are back when I first came to the UK.”
“You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point.”
“Your laughter, your wit, your brilliance, your procrastination. I love it all, but what I love most is your friendship.”
British Drag Race star Bimini Bon Boulash also reacted to the news, writing on Instagram: “I’m so sorry, I’m absolutely devastated.”
Cheryl, formerly known as Cheryl Hole, competed in the same series of drag queen shows as The Vivienne. “I will always love you Viv,” the performer wrote on Instagram.
Announcing Williams’ death on Sunday, publicist Simon Jones said the performer was “a hugely loved, warm-hearted and wonderful person”.
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be released soon. Please refresh the page for the full version.
You can receive breaking news on your smartphone or tablet BBC News App. You can also follow @BBCBreaking on X Get the latest alerts.
