The Vivienne’s Legacy: 5 Triumphs Of The Iconic RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Winner

The Vivienne, a name synonymous with sharp wit, impeccable impersonations, and the crowning glory of British drag, left an indelible mark on the global entertainment landscape. As of December 2025, the world continues to mourn the loss of James Lee Williams, the talented performer behind the legendary persona, while celebrating a career that broke barriers and inspired millions. This article serves as a tribute, detailing the life, remarkable achievements, and lasting legacy of the queen who defined a generation of UK drag.

The news of The Vivienne's untimely passing in January 2025 sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and peers, including RuPaul himself. Her life, though tragically short, was a masterclass in performance art, resilience, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, cementing her status as a true icon and a vital figure in the history of *RuPaul’s Drag Race* and beyond. Her story is one of triumph, from the Liverpool scene to international stardom.

The Vivienne: A Complete Biography and Profile

• Full Name: James Lee Williams
• Drag Name: The Vivienne
• Date of Birth: April 12, 1992
• Date of Passing: January 3 or 5, 2025
• Age at Passing: 32
• Hometown: Colwyn Bay, Wales (Raised in Liverpool, England)
• Nationality: Welsh / British
• Career: Drag Queen, Actor, Singer, Comedian, Television Personality, LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate
• Spouse: David Ludford (m. 2019)
• Claim to Fame: Winner of *RuPaul's Drag Race UK* Series 1 (2019)
• Notable Appearances: *RuPaul's Drag Race UK* (Winner), *RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars* Season 7 (Finalist), *Dancing on Ice*, *The Only Way Is Essex* (cameo), *The Vivienne Takes Hollywood* (documentary series).
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest, with subsequent reporting sparking calls for ketamine awareness.

The Five Defining Triumphs of The Vivienne’s Career

The Vivienne’s career was a whirlwind of groundbreaking moments, from her early days performing in Liverpool to becoming a global superstar. Her influence stretches far beyond the runway, encompassing television, music, and political activism. These five achievements stand out as the pillars of her enduring legacy.

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1. Conquering RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1

The most significant milestone in her career was undoubtedly becoming the first-ever winner of *RuPaul's Drag Race UK* in 2019. Her victory was decisive, showcasing a unique blend of high-fashion looks, polished comedy, and a formidable stage presence. The Vivienne’s Snatch Game performance as Donald Trump is considered one of the all-time best in the franchise's history, demonstrating her masterful talent for impersonation and dry wit.

2. The Groundbreaking Return on All Stars 7

In 2022, The Vivienne made history by competing on *RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars* Season 7, the first-ever all-winners season of the franchise. Competing against legendary queens from the US seasons, she proved she could hold her own on the world stage, reaching the finale and showcasing the versatility and evolution of her drag. Her performance on *All Stars* cemented her status as a global drag superstar, not just a UK phenomenon.

3. Breaking the Mainstream Barrier with ‘Dancing on Ice’

The Vivienne’s appearance on the UK reality competition show *Dancing on Ice* in 2023 was a pivotal moment for drag in mainstream television. She was the first drag queen to compete in the show's history, performing in full drag and challenging traditional gender norms on a prime-time family program. Her participation was a powerful act of visibility, normalizing drag artistry for a mass audience and demonstrating the athleticism and dedication required of a top-tier performer.

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4. A Voice for LGBTQ+ Rights and Advocacy

Beyond the glamour, The Vivienne was a passionate and outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She used her platform to discuss important issues, including mental health, addiction, and the political relevance of drag. Her commitment to advocacy, even in the face of public scrutiny, highlighted the deeper, political roots of drag performance—a tradition of resistance and visibility that she carried forward with grace and power.

5. The Enduring Legacy and the ‘Dear Viv’ Tribute

In the wake of her passing, The Vivienne’s profound impact is being honored with a tribute film titled *Dear Viv*. This upcoming documentary, set to explore her life, career, and the legacy of the inaugural *RuPaul’s Drag Race UK* winner, ensures her story will continue to inspire. Furthermore, the circumstances of her death—suffering cardiac arrest with later details leading to calls for increased awareness about ketamine use—have inadvertently sparked a crucial public health conversation, turning a tragedy into a catalyst for awareness and change.

The Vivienne’s Impact on British Drag Culture

The Vivienne’s success fundamentally altered the trajectory of British drag. Before her victory, the UK drag scene, while vibrant, lacked the international spotlight. Her win on *Drag Race UK* provided a global platform, showcasing the unique humor, artistry, and political edge of queens from the United Kingdom. She bridged the gap between the underground club scene and mainstream television, inspiring a new generation of performers to pursue drag as a viable, professional art form.

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Her style—often described as polished, expensive, and high-concept—set a new standard for presentation. She was a chameleon, effortlessly transitioning from the comedic character of Donald Trump to the high-fashion looks seen on her season of *All Stars*. This versatility demonstrated the depth of her artistic talent and her commitment to the craft of drag.

A Final Bow: Remembering James Lee Williams

The life of James Lee Williams was a testament to the power of self-expression and the art of transformation. While The Vivienne was a fierce and often intimidating presence on screen, James was remembered by peers like RuPaul as an "incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being." Her passing at the age of 32 leaves a void in the drag community, but her body of work—her music, her television appearances, and her advocacy—remains a powerful reminder of her brilliance.

The legacy of The Vivienne is not just in the crown she won, but in the doors she opened for others. She was a pioneer who brought Welsh and British drag to the forefront, proving that a queen from Liverpool could conquer the world. As fans await the release of *Dear Viv* and continue to celebrate her career, The Vivienne will forever be remembered as a true icon, a champion, and a queen who lived life in full, glorious color.