Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne has shared a poignant final message on social media just days before her untimely death at 32.
Vivienne – real name James Lee Williams – died tragically this weekend, her friend and publicist Simon Jones has confirmed.
In an emotional statement, Simon announced: “It is with immense sadness that we inform you that our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, passed away this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm and extraordinary person. Their family is heartbroken over the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are very proud of the wonderful things James has accomplished in their life and career. We will not disclose further details. We please ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.
Three days previously, The Vivienne took to Instagram to encourage her followers to support SAHIR, Liverpool’s first and oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity.
The drag artist wrote: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do for charity is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpool’s oldest LGBT+ charity! ! ! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month, you won’t miss it.
The entertainment world is in mourning following the news of the star’s death, with Michelle Visage expressing her devastation: “I have no words. Completely heartbroken,” reports the Mirror.
The RuPaul’s Drag Race judge also took to Instagram to share personal photos with The Vivienne, alongside a heartfelt caption: “Heartbreaking. I don’t know how to say what I feel. My darling @thevivienne_, we’re going back to when I first started coming here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always generous, always relevant.
“Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved everything but I especially loved your friendship. You were a beacon to so many. Watching you make your West End debut was incredible for me to see your dream come true right before my eyes, I am lucky to have known you and laughed with you so many times.
“I love you my darling. We will miss you so much my dear. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL flies high.
In a poignant post, Simon expressed his sadness: “These are words I never wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. As soon as I met them in 2019, I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager.
He goes on to reflect on the lost talent: “Their talent was immense and the light they brought to each piece was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh as much in my life as Viv. Their comic genius and quick wit were unlike any other.
Concluding his tribute, he shared: “I am so proud and lucky that Viv has played such an important role in my life every day for the last 5 years. It’s tragic that their careers are only just beginning. In musical theater, Viv had found a space and career in which she loved, excelled, and thrived. I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us too soon.
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