Police issue update over ‘sudden’ death of RuPaul’s Drag Race star The Vivienne

The Vivienne’s ‘sudden’ death is not being treated as suspicious, police have confirmed – as tributes pour in for the ‘sweetest soul’ who shot to fame on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

The star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically died last week at the age of 32 after a glittering career that soared to new heights when they won the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.

Today a spokesperson for Cheshire Police said officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford at 12.22am on Sunday following reports of a sudden death.

The spokesperson said: ‘Police attended, investigated the circumstances surrounding the 32-year-old man’s death and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances.

“A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

Simon Jones, publicist for The Vivienne, confirmed the tragic death on Instagram yesterday, writing: ‘It is with immense sadness that we let you know that our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, passed away this weekend.

“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and wonderful person. Their family is heartbroken over the loss of their son, brother and uncle.

“They are so proud of the wonderful things James has achieved in their lives and careers. We will not release any further details.

“We please ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they need at this time to process and grieve.”

He continued, “These are words I never wanted to write. Viv was a good 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 into every room was astonishing. No one in my life has ever made me laugh as much as Viv. Their comedic brilliance and quick wit were like no other.

“I’m so proud and happy that Viv has been such a big part of my life every day for the past five years. Tragically, their careers were just beginning. In musical theater, Viv had found a space and career that they loved, excelled in, and thrived in.

‘I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”

Williams, who came second in the 2023 series of Dancing on Ice, recently performed as the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK and Irish tour of the musical The Wizard of Oz and reprized their West End role at the Gillian Lynne last year Theatre. .

Bad star Ariana Grande paid a heartfelt tribute ahead of attending the 2025 Golden Globes.

The actress and singer shared a photo of The Vivienne on social media, along with three hearts and an infinity emoji.

Elsewhere, Strictly’s Oti Mabuse said: ‘Some news hits you harder than others and holds you back. I absolutely loved The Viv. A beautiful person, funny, kind, a pioneer, creative and so warm.’

RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Michelle Visage paid tribute to Williams, writing that their deaths were “heartbreaking.”

Visage took to Instagram to post photos of the two of them together, writing, “I don’t know how to say how I feel. My dear, we are going back to when I came here to Britain.

‘You were always there, always smiling, always giving, always sharp. Your laugh, your humor, your talent, your drag.

‘I loved everything, but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to many.

‘It was amazing for me to see you make your West End debut and watch your dream come true before my eyes. I am the lucky one to have known and laughed with you so many times.

‘I love you my love. You will be so missed my love. May your light shine brightly, forever. TEAR MY ANGEL, fly high.”

The Vivienne was due to be on tour again next month, appearing in the musical The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in the role of the Childcatcher.

Paying tribute to The Vivienne on social media, the show wrote: “We are deeply saddened to hear of The Vivienne’s passing.

“Her talent, humor and dedication to the art of drag were an inspiration.

“She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity – she embodied what it means to be a true champion.

“Our thoughts go out to her family and fans at this difficult time.”