RuPaul’s reaction to death of Drag Race winner exposed.
RuPaul has broken their silence following the shocking death of James Lee Williams, better known as their drag persona, The Vivienne.
The Vivienne’s career highlighted.
Fans around the world have been left devastated by the loss of the iconic drag performer, whose career skyrocketed after winning the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
The Vivienne’s wit, charisma, and undeniable talent made them an international favorite in the drag community.
Born James Lee Williams, The Vivienne grew up in Liverpool and began performing in drag in their early 20s.
They quickly earned a reputation for their sharp humor and impeccable impersonations, particularly their uncanny portrayal of Donald Trump.
After their groundbreaking win on Drag Race UK, The Vivienne used their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and support emerging drag talent.
The Vivienne had a diverse and accomplished career, starring in shows like Dancing on Ice and the UK tour of The Wizard of Oz as the Wicked Witch of the West.
Their presence extended far beyond drag, with ventures into music, acting, and even reality competition shows.
They were also a fan favorite on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 7 and made numerous appearances on British television.
As fans continue to process this tragic loss, many are reflecting on the joy The Vivienne brought to audiences around the globe.
The Vivienne’s death confirmed.
The tragic news of their passing at just 32 years old was announced on Sunday, January 5, by their publicist, Simon Jones, in a heartfelt Instagram post. They additionally made one final Instagram post before they passed.
“It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne – has passed this weekend,” Jones wrote.
The publicist added, “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.”
However, Jones noted that no further details about the cause of death would be released.
The loss has left an undeniable void in the drag and LGBTQ+ communities, where The Vivienne was celebrated as a trailblazer and source of inspiration.
Tributes for The Vivienne unveiled.
Friends and fellow queens from the Drag Race universe have flooded social media with heartfelt tributes.
Michelle Visage wrote, “My darling @thevivienne_, your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved it all, but your friendship most of all. You will be so missed, my lovely.”
Former Drag Race champion Jinkx Monsoon added, “It’s too soon for a curtain call, but I know it’s a standing ovation. I love you, Viv.”
Fellow UK drag queen Tia Kofi called The Vivienne “a mentor, an inspiration, and a friend,” saying, “Love you Viv.”
However, amid the outpouring of grief, controversy has emerged, stemming from a deeply insensitive tweet by former Drag Race winner Tyra Sanchez.
Tyra’s controversial tweet uncovered.
Hours after the announcement of The Vivienne’s death, Sanchez resurfaced an old tweet by The Vivienne from 2020, which criticized her performance.
Sanchez shared the old tweet alongside the shocking comment: “Yet it doesn’t compare to the fumes of the crematorium.”
The remark sparked widespread backlash, with fans accusing Sanchez of cruelty and disrespect.
In response to the criticism, Sanchez doubled down, tweeting, “She’s dead. Rotting. Sending me all the hate in the world won’t bring her back.”
Despite the controversy, the focus remains on honoring The Vivienne’s legacy and the indelible mark they left on the drag world.
In response, RuPaul shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, posting a candid photo of The Vivienne from their early days in drag.
RuPaul’s heartfelt tribute to drag icon unveiled.
“With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne—an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being,” RuPaul wrote.
The photo was a poignant throwback to 2015, when The Vivienne won the competition to become the first-ever RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Ambassador.
This honor came four years before their history-making victory on Drag Race UK, catapulting them to superstardom.
RuPaul’s parting words serve as a powerful reminder: “The Vivienne’s light will continue to shine brightly in the Drag Race universe and beyond.”
Tributes continue to pour in, with countless fans and celebrities sharing their memories and love for The Vivienne.
Our thoughts are with James’ family, friends, and fans as they mourn the loss of this remarkable star.