The cause of death for “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” star The Vivienne has been tragically revealed. According to a statement from their family, The Vivienne — whose real name was James Lee Williams — passed away in January from a cardiac arrest caused by the effects of ketamine.
The Vivienne’s sister, Chanel Williams, spoke to BBC News about the loss, expressing her family’s devastation while also emphasizing their determination to raise awareness about the dangers of ketamine. Chanel shared that the family hopes to help prevent similar tragedies by collaborating with a substance abuse charity. She said, “Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK. 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.”
An inquest into The Vivienne’s death is scheduled for June.
The Vivienne’s Legacy
The Vivienne, 32, made history in 2019 as the first-ever winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.” They had a remarkable career, appearing on the show as a prominent ambassador in 2015 before claiming the crown in its debut season. In addition to their drag career, The Vivienne also made waves in the entertainment industry, reaching the finale of “Dancing on Ice” in 2023.
Though their life was tragically cut short, The Vivienne’s legacy as a groundbreaking and beloved figure in the drag community continues to inspire many.
A Final Tribute
As The Vivienne’s family processes this heartbreaking loss, their hope is that raising awareness about ketamine will provide some meaning to the tragedy. Fans and friends have paid tribute to the star, remembering them not only for their success but for the positive impact they made within the LGBTQ+ community.
