Wolverhampton Grand Theatre pays tribute to much-loved drag queen who died aged 32

James Lee Williams, known as drag artist The Vivienne, rose to prominence after becoming an ambassador for the US reality TV series of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2015. 

They later won the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019, and competed again in the seventh season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars in 2022. 

And The Vivienne's talents did not stop at drag. They had an acting role in Emmerdale and was commended as an 'immensely talented musical theatre performer', most recently starring as the Wicked Witch of the West for The Wizard of Oz in the 2024 UK tour.  

James, who was born in Colwyn Bay in North Wales, also became the first drag performer to compete on Dancing on Ice in 2023, appearing as a contestant on the fifteenth series, in which they finished in third place. 

The Vivienne's public relations representative announced their death on Sunday. 

The multi-talented performer was not long ago in Wolverhampton as they took to the stage at The Grand for The Wizard of Oz. 

The theatre paid tribute in a social media post this morning. 

It read: "We are beyond devastated to hear of the passing of James Lee Williams, The Vivienne. Not only were they a formidable Drag Queen but an immensely talented musical theatre performer who created and delivered the most inspired Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz here last summer - a role they played to critical acclaim and an outpouring of love and support from our audiences. Our thoughts are with their family, friends and Wizard of Oz company."

Many other tributes from performers, drag queens and TV personalities have flooded in for James. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage said: “Heartbreaking, I don’t know how to say how I feel.

“My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point.

“Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many.”

Coronation Street star Antony Cotton said the news was “unbelievably sad”, adding: “James was a real joy to be around. We loved him, x.” 

Emmerdale actor Lisa Riley wrote on Instagram: “You incredible human … rest in peace. Never stop shining your beautiful light over us all. Love and strength to all your family. We will miss you so much.”

ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly wrote on X: “Oh this is so sad – such a lovely, funny, whip smart and generous person. A delight to interview. My thoughts with everyone who loved The Vivienne.”