Favorite drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race star James Lee Williamsbetter known as Vivien, has died. They were 32.
“It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne passed away this weekend,” the artist’s manager, Simon Joneswrote in a statement shared via Instagram on Sunday, January 5.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“James was an incredibly loving, warm-hearted and amazing person,” the publicist’s statement continued. “Their family is devastated by the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James has accomplished in their lives and careers. We will not release any further details. We ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they need now to process and grieve.”
In a subsequent statement, also shared through his Instagram account, Jones shared a more personal reaction to the news of the drag queen’s untimely death, writing that Vivienne was more than a client — they were friends.
James Lee Williams
Courtesy of James Lee Williams/Instagram“These are words I never wanted to write,” Jones said in the second statement. “Viv was a close friend, client and person I loved dearly. From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together and became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to each room was amazing.
Jones went on to explain that “no one has ever made me laugh as hard in my life as Viv”, before adding that “their comic genius and quick wit was like no other”.
“I am so proud and lucky that Viv has been such a big part of my life every day for the past 5 years,” the statement continued. “It’s tragic that their careers are just getting started. In musical theater, Viv had found a space and a career that they loved, excelled at and thrived on. I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us too soon.”
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Vivienne was best known for her time on the hit reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race UK — the drag queen won the inaugural series in 2019. Drag Race a judge Michelle Face responded to the news of Vivienne’s death, calling it “heartbreaking.”
“Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your resistance. I loved everything, but most of all I loved your friendship,” Visage wrote via Instagram on Sunday. “You were a beacon to so many… I love you my darling. I will miss you.”
