The queer community is mourning the loss of The Vivienne, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1, whose cause of death has now been confirmed. James Lee Williams, known as The Vivienne, passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 32 due to cardiac arrest caused by ketamine use.
Their manager, Simon Jones, shared the news with Attitude Magazine, hoping to raise awareness about the drug’s dangers. “Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed,” he stated.
Tributes poured in from the drag and LGBTQ+ communities. RuPaul expressed heartbreak, calling The Vivienne “an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being.” Bianca Del Rio added, “Thank you for sharing your light with all of us.”
A beloved performer and advocate, The Vivienne leaves behind a powerful legacy. Their untimely passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of open conversations around substance use and harm reduction. Rest in power.
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