A cause of death has been confirmed for The Vivienne, nearly three-months after the Drag Race UK star’s death. The late star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died in January.
Their family has been praised for their admirable reaction to their loved one’s death. On Sunday, January 5, Simon Jones, the manager of the Drag Race UK celebrity, announced that The Vivienne had died at the young age of 32.
Initially, no cause of death was disclosed, but further details have now been released by a spokesperson. In a statement given to Attitude tonight, Simon revealed that James died “from the effects of ketamine use causing a cardiac arrest.”
He continued: “I hope that by us releasing this information, we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body. Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed.”
The family of The Vivienne has since joined forces with a UK charity dedicated to supporting those dealing with substance use and mental health issues. Their collaboration with Aderiad aims to shed light on the risks associated with ketamine use and assist individuals seeking help, reports the Mirror.
The family of The Vivienne, whose sudden death has sent shockwaves through the UK, is speaking out about the dangers of drug use. Chanel Williams, sister to the drag performer, told Attitude: “We continue to be completely devastated by James’s sudden death. Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” expressing her concern over the growing presence of drugs like ketamine and underscoring the urgency for increased drug education.
In the wake of their grief, last month saw Chanel and her father receive a posthumous honour for The Vivienne at a touching ceremony. Drag queens from Drag Race UK came together to remember their beloved colleague at the Metro Pride Awards, where The Vivienne was awarded the Icon Award after her untimely demise.
Rylan Clark, the host, struggled with his emotions on stage, saying, “The Vivienne as we know was a true force of nature in the drag world, breaking barriers and inspiring so many of us with their talent, wit and heart. They were a true icon and the legacy will live on in everything that they did. Tonight, we are paying tribute to The Vivienne at the Metro Pride Awards, with the Metro Pride Awards Icon Award.”
It was a moment of raw emotion as Simon Jones, The Vivienne’s close friend and publicist, followed by her sister and father, took the stage to accept the accolade amidst the crowd’s deeply felt sentiments.
The tragic news of The Vivienne’s passing was first announced by her manager on the 5th, revealing her death had occurred over the weekend. In memoriam, Simon wrote: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. 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. We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
The devastating news sparked a wave of heartfelt tributes from friends and admirers worldwide, with Simon himself adding: “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.
“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 that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last five 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.”
In the days leading up to her untimely departure, The Vivienne hinted at grand aspirations for 2025 through her social media activity. Their final Instagram update saw them calling on supporters to contribute to SAHIR, a prominent LGBTQ+ and HIV charity in Liverpool.
James penned: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it.”
On Boxing Day, the Dancing on Ice celebrity reflected on their accomplishments from the previous year and expressed hope for continued success. James posted a collage of images showcasing their varied career, including television gigs and ventures into musical theatre.
Accompanying the yearly recap, they expressed: “Some ’24 highlights. What a year it’s been. Here’s to reaching new heights and achieving dreams in 25. Wishing all the most prosperous new year. You got this.”
The Vivienne also included three green hearts in her post as a nod to her role in The Wizard of Oz and concluded with affectionate kisses for her fans.
*Frank provides confidential advice on drugs and addiction (email frank@talktofrank. com, message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600), and the NHS offers information on seeking assistance.