The reality TV star – real name was James Lee Williams – won the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, with their drag name being influenced by their love for Vivienne Westwood clothing.
It was confirmed on Sunday (January 5) by their publicist, Simon Jones, that The Vivienne had passed away over the weekend.
Jones wrote on Instagram: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
The Vivienne has died aged 32 (Lia Toby/Getty Images)
“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 please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
Jones added that Williams would be remembered for their ‘immense talent’ and ‘the light they brought to every room was astonishing’.
Many tributes have poured in for the performer online from fans and friends, including one from Ariana Grande.
Drag Race judge Michelle Visage also described the news as ‘heartbreaking’, while fellow Drag Race UK star, Bimini Bon Boulash, wrote on social media: “I’m so sorry I’m in total shock.”
And now, their ex-husband David Ludford has also since released a statement.
“My heart literally sank when I got the call. Never in a million years did I ever think I’d ever be writing anything like this about James Lee Williams.” he said. “This man changed my life so much from the day we first met in August 2017 in Gran Canaria! We literally clicked straight away and we knew we were going to be together for along time!
The pair got married in 2019 before splitting up in 2023 (Instagram/@d.ludford)
“He made me feel love and shown me what it was really like to love someone. We literally went through and did so much together it was like a whirlwind and I wouldn’t have changed the time we spent together for anything in the world!”
He continued: “I feel like a tit feeling this upset and hurt because we have been fully divorced for just over a year now but we was together 6 year and we loved each other so much and you can’t take away.
“I’m so happy to say I not only met you but we was together, we was husbands and you was the biggest part of my life for such a long time. 6 years is such a long time to spend 24/7 with.
“You will always have a place in my heart. Going to miss you more than people will ever know. Sleep tight angel.”
The pair tied the knot at Heaven, a gay nightclub based in London, in December 2019, and in 2023, The Vivienne confirmed their breakup after revealing that the two had ‘grown apart’.
They wrote on Instagram (via The Mirror): “We wish each the absolute best and will always be part of each others lives.”
Earlier on Monday (January 6), Cheshire Police said in a statement that they were called to an address near Chester, UK, on Sunday regarding the death of a 32-year-old man, however, they added that there were ‘no suspicious circumstances’.
