THE showbiz world has been rocked by the death of a popular TV drag queen and celebrity tributes are pouring in for the young star.
James Lee Williams – who went by the name The Vivienne – has tragically died at the age of 32, his publicist Simon Jones announced on social media.
Celebrities are now paying tribute to the star who won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
Love Island star Amber Davies said she was in “complete disbelief”.
“The most supportive and wonderful soul. RIP our Viv, we all love you so much.
English singer Perrie Edwards posted heart and sticky plaster emojis.
Drag Race UK vs The World winner Tia Kofi wrote: “This is an incredible loss to the British drag community and the world. Viv has represented British drag at its best on stage and screen internationally.
“She was a mentor, an inspiration and a friend. This shock will be deeply felt by all of us. I love you Vivi.
Pussycat Dolls star Ashley Roberts said: “Oh my God! I can’t believe this. This is heartbreaking news.
Sheridan Smith added: “Oh my God! No! So sorry Simon.
Michelle Visage shared snaps with her and The Vivienne on Instagram saying: “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.
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“Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved everything but I especially loved your friendship. You were a beacon to so many.
Following this announcement, PR Simon Jones paid his own tribute.
He said: “It is with great 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 by the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are very proud of the wonderful things James has accomplished in their life and career.
“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.
“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.
“I am so proud and lucky that Viv has played such an important role in my daily life over the past five years. It’s tragic that their careers are only just beginning. In musical theater, Viv had found a space and career that she loved, excelled at, and thrived in.
“I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us too soon.
Born and raised in North Wales, Williams moved to Liverpool at the age of 16 and flourished in the drag scene where they hired inspirational fashion designer Vivienne Westwood.
The drag artist was only seen on Blankety Blank – previously hosted by drag legend Lily Savage – a few days ago during the Christmas special.
