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The Vivienne (born James Lee Williams) tragically passed away at the beginning of 2025, and the cause has just been made public.
The beloved RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1 winner passed at the age of 32, and her family told the BBC they felt it was important to share the circumstances publicly.
Keep reading to find out more…
The Vivienne died from a cardiac arrest caused by the effects of taking ketamine.
“Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” The Vivienne’s sister Chanel Williams told the BBC, adding that the family “continue to be completely devastated.”
“If we can help raise awareness of the dangers of this drug and help people who may be dealing with ketamine addiction then something positive will come from this complete tragedy,” she said.
The family added that Viv “brought the sparkle to life” and will be missed “for eternity” during an emotional vigil in Liverpool, England.
An inquest into her passing will take place in June. Cheshire Police said there are no suspicious circumstances.
Manager and friend Simon Jones added: “I hope by us releasing this information we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body.”
She was found at her home on January 5. Aside from her Drag Race achievements, The Vivienne was also the first drag performer to compete on Dancing on Ice in 2023, appearing on Season 15, and a debut on the West End in 2024.
The team behind Drag Race is currently producing Dear Viv, a documentary celebrating the performer’s life and legacy, via Deadline.
Our thoughts are with The Vivienne‘s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We have sadly lost several stars from Drag Race.
