RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Winner The Vivienne Dead At 32

It’s a sad, sad day for fans of RuPau’ls Drag Race UK.

Tragedy struck the drag community over the weekend as a highly regarded member passed away at just 32 years old. That member is none other than the winner of season 1 of the UK reality competition, The Vivienne.

Simon Jones, a rep for the drag star — born James Lee Williams — announced the tragic news on X (Twitter) on Sunday:

“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams — The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted 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’ family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”

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— Simon Jones (@simonjonespr) January 5, 2025

So, so sad.

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The Vivienne, who used they/them pronouns, also appeared on season 7 of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars as the only non-US winner.

Following the tragic announcement, the official RuPaul’s Drag Race account on X (Twitter) shared their condolences:

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true champion.  Our hearts go out to her family and fans during this difficult time.”

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. Her talent, humor, and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true… pic.twitter.com/Kf5biayP9R

— RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) January 5, 2025

See a highlight of some of their best moments on the show (below):

Our hearts are with The Vivienne’s family during this tragic time. Rest in peace.

[Images via The Vivienne/Instagram & BBC Three/YouTube]