Renowned presenter Lorraine Kelly was among those paying tribute to The Vivienne, following the news of the 32 year old’s sudden death. The celebrated champion of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, whose birth name was James Lee Williams, passed away over the weekend, with the authorities reporting “no suspicious circumstances” revolving around the death.
During Monday’s edition of her ITV programme, Lorraine, who had spoken to The Vivienne on numerous occasions following her Drag Race triumph, paid tribute to the Dancing on Ice star, along with co-star Tyler West. Lorraine remarked: “This is really sad news, I was really shocked by this.”
She continued: “I got this news really late last night and there are some things that really make you go, ‘What?’ It’s so sad,” as she recalled The Vivienne’s “funny and whip-smart” nature. Extending her sympathies, Lorraine added: “My thoughts are with everybody who knew The Vivienne and loved The Vivienne.”
Moreover, she urged people to have respect for those mourning, adding: “Police have said no suspicious circumstances, we don’t know anymore than that. We should just leave it and let people grieve and remember – hopefully with a smile – what a force of nature [they were].”
An announcement was made by The Vivienne’s publicist and close companion Simon Jones on Sunday 5 January. He expressed his profound sorrow through a poignant statement on X, stating: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.”
Simon fondly remembered James as an “incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person”, reports OK!. In a subsequent touching homage to The Vivienne, Simon unveiled the profound connection they shared.
“These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager,” he recounted. “Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.
“I’m so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”