The sudden and tragic passing of James Lee Williams, professionally known as The Vivienne, at the young age of 32 has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and the LGBTQ+ community. The Vivienne, a vibrant and beloved drag performer, achieved widespread recognition as the first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. Her infectious energy, sharp wit, and undeniable talent captivated audiences, propelling her to further success on ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2023, where she finished in an impressive third place. Her final public message, just weeks before her untimely death, serves as a poignant reminder of her generous spirit and commitment to social causes.
The Vivienne’s last social media post, shared on January 2nd, 2024, was a heartfelt appeal for support for Sahir House, Liverpool’s oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity. In her characteristically warm and engaging style, she encouraged her followers to donate to the organization, highlighting the vital work they do for the community. She emphasized the impact even small monthly contributions could make, urging fans to join her in giving back. This final act of generosity underscores The Vivienne’s dedication to using her platform to uplift others and champion important causes, particularly those close to her heart within the LGBTQ+ community.
Sahir House, the charity championed by The Vivienne, has been serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV in the Liverpool City Region since 1985. The organization provides a range of crucial services, from support and advocacy to health and wellbeing programs. They work to create connections, foster inclusivity, and build a brighter future for those they serve. The Vivienne’s endorsement of Sahir House brought renewed attention to their invaluable work and inspired a wave of donations and expressions of support from fans touched by her final message.
The announcement of The Vivienne’s passing, delivered by her PR agent Simon Jones, was met with an outpouring of grief and disbelief. Jones described The Vivienne as an “incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person,” highlighting the profound impact she had on those around her. Her family, devastated by the loss of their son, brother, and uncle, expressed immense pride in all that she achieved during her life and career. The family has requested privacy as they navigate their grief, and no further details about the circumstances surrounding her death have been released.
The Vivienne’s final television appearance aired just days before her passing, further emphasizing the sudden and unexpected nature of her loss. Her vibrant presence on screen and on stage will be deeply missed. Fans have flooded her social media with heartfelt tributes, sharing memories of her infectious laughter, her dazzling performances, and her unwavering kindness. Many have expressed gratitude for the joy and inspiration she brought into their lives, recognizing the profound impact she had on the drag community and beyond.
The legacy of The Vivienne extends far beyond her impressive achievements in the entertainment industry. She will be remembered not only as a talented performer and a trailblazing drag icon but also as a compassionate advocate and a generous spirit. Her final message, a testament to her commitment to giving back, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting organizations like Sahir House that work tirelessly to uplift and empower vulnerable communities. The Vivienne’s light may have been extinguished far too soon, but her impact will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched and the causes she championed.
