James Lee Williams – better known as The Vivienne – passed away at the age of just 32, and a spokesperson has revealed the cause of their heartbreaking death
A cause of death has been confirmed for The Vivienne – real name James Lee Williams – almost three months on from their heartbreaking death. The late star’s family’s commendable response to their loved one’s passing has also been shared publicly.
On Sunday, January 5, the Drag Race UK star’s manager, Simon Jones, confirmed that The Vivienne had passed away at the age of just 32. No cause of death was given at the time of the announcement, but a spokesperson has now shared more details about the tragic loss.
In a statement provided to Attitude this evening, the late Drag Race icon’s manager and friend Simon confirmed that James had passed away “from the effects of ketamine use causing a cardiac arrest.”
He added: “I hope that by us releasing this information, we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body. Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed.”
The Vivienne’s family has now partnered with a UK-based charity supporting individuals struggling with substance use and mental health challenges, the publication also notes. Their partnership with charity Aderiad will highlight the dangers of using ketamine and help those looking to access support.
The Vivienne’s manager was the first to announce her death on the 5th, saying that she had died that weekend. Simon wrote: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm- hearted and amazing person. 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 will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
The heartbreaking news prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends and fans from across the world, with Simon himself following up: “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close 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 to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick with was like no other. I’m so proud that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
Just days before her passing, The Vivienne’s final social media posts suggested she had big plans for 2025. In her last post on Instagram, she urged fans to donate to SAHIR, Liverpool’s largest and oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity. James wrote: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it.”
On December 26, the Dancing on Ice star again hinted that she was involved in major projects as she looked back at her achievements from 2024 and wished for an equally successful future. James shared a selection of photos showing their impressive career, from TV appearances to stepping into musical theatre.
Alongside the annual roundup, they wrote: “Some ‘24 highlights. What a year it’s been. Here’s to reaching new heights and achieving dreams in 25. Wishing all the most prosperous new year. You got this.” The Vivienne added three green hearts to the post in honour of her work in The Wizard of Oz, and signed off with kisses for her followers.
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