"The winner of the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019, a Dancing on Ice finalist and West End star, The Vivienne - real name James Lee Williams - was a firm fan favourite amongst drag stans and became an entertainment powerhouse in the years following her victory on the show. Originally from Colwyn Bay in Wales, the star moved to Liverpool aged 16 to pursue a career as a make-up artist."
"She died on 3 January 2025 at the age of 32 from cardiac arrest as a result of taking ketamine. An inquest into the drag performer's death subsequently hearing she had "relatively high" level of ketamine in her system. The Vivienne's death sent shock waves Drag Race community, wider LGBTQ+ community and entertainment world, with hundreds of people turning out to pay tribute to her at a vigil in Liverpool and RuPaul giving a heartwarming speech in her honour at DragCon."
"A year on, a lot of people are still carrying the loss of James in their own ways. Putting together this visual tribute was about giving that feeling a shared outlet, and letting those in the North West, across Liverpool, Chester and Manchester, reflect what The Vivienne meant to them; whilst also raising awareness of The House of the Vivienne and the work they"
The Vivienne achieved fame as the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race UK series one, a Dancing on Ice finalist and a West End star. Born James Lee Williams, the performer moved from Colwyn Bay to Liverpool at 16 to pursue a career as a make-up artist. The Vivienne died on 3 January 2025, aged 32, of cardiac arrest after taking ketamine; an inquest recorded a relatively high ketamine level. The death prompted vigils, widespread tributes and a heartfelt speech at DragCon. Her family launched The House of the Vivienne to support people struggling with addiction. Iconic north west buildings will light up green on the anniversary, referencing her Wicked Witch role and raising awareness of the support group.
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