Police have confirmed that the ‘sudden’ death of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne is not being treated as suspicious. Tributes have poured in for the beloved performer, described as having the ‘sweetest soul.’
The star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically passed away last week at the age of 32. Williams gained widespread fame after winning the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, which propelled their career to new heights.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police stated that officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford at 12:22 pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police confirmed, “Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man, and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”
The Vivienne’s publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the tragic news on Instagram yesterday, stating, “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams — The Vivienne — has passed this weekend.”
Jones continued, “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.”
Simon Jones, The Vivienne’s publicist, further requested, “We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
Jones continued with a personal tribute, stating, “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client, and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense, and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.”
He added, “I’m so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last five years. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre, Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled, and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
Williams, who came second in the 2023 Dancing on Ice series, had recently performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard of Oz and reprised the role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre last year.
Ariana Grande, the star of Wicked, paid a heartfelt tribute ahead of attending the 2025 Golden Globes. She shared a picture of The Vivienne on social media with three hearts and an infinity emoji.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Oti Mabuse also expressed her grief, writing, “Some news hits you harder than others and stops you in your tracks. I absolutely loved The Viv. A beautiful human being, funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative, and so warm.”
RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage also honored Williams, describing their death as “heartbreaking.”
Michelle Visage shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, posting photographs of her and The Vivienne together. She wrote, “I don’t know how to say how I feel. My darling, we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag.”
Visage continued, “I loved all of it, but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many. Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes. I’m the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times.”
She concluded, “I love you, my darling. You will be so missed, my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL, fly high.”
The Vivienne was scheduled to return to the stage next month, performing in the role of the Childcatcher in The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical. The show’s official social media page paid tribute to The Vivienne, writing, “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.”
The statement continued, “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.”
