An emotional vigil has been held to The Vivienne in their hometown of Liverpool. The Vivienne, real name, James Lee Williams, who was from Colwyn Bay, north Wales died earlier this month at the age of 32.
The drag star rose to fame on the first season of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, coming first in that competition before going on to compete in Ru Paul’s Drag Race All Stars in 2022. Following that, Vivienne became the first drag queen to participate in Dancing on Ice, coming third in 2023.
The news of James’ death was confirmed by their publicist on January 5. A statement said: “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.”
The competition returned to our TV screens on Sunday, January 12 where Holly Willoughby led a tribute to the Welsh born drag artist. At the same time, a vigil was being held in Liverpool, the city that James called home.
Leading tributes on the night, Simon Jones, James’ publicist, described them as a “hilarious talent” who was “never mean.” Simon added: “There was a magic about her. The Vivienne was the queen of UK drag.”
At the event, hundreds of green balloons were released in their memory, in a touching reference to their role as the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz musical show. St George’s Hall, where the vigil took place, was also lit in green in a touching tribute, The Liverpool Echo reports.
James’ friend Bobby spoke at the vigil, as long as Jame’s niece, Isabella, who said: “Thank you very much for coming. I love you uncle James.”
A moving performance of Somewhere Over The Rainbow marked the end of the vigil. For the latest TV & Showbiz news, sign up to our newsletter