Drag Race star James Lee Williams, known as Vivienne, has died aged 32

Beloved drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race star James Lee Williamsbetter known as vivienne, he died They were 32.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne this weekend,” the artist’s manager said. Simon Joneshe wrote in a statement shared via Instagram on Sunday, January 5.

The cause of death was not revealed.

“James was an incredibly loving, warm-hearted and wonderful person,” the publicist’s statement continued. “Their family is heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the amazing things James has accomplished in their lives and careers. We will not publish any further details. We ask that James’ family be given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”

In a subsequent statement also shared through his Instagram Jones shared a more personal reaction to the news of the drag queen’s untimely death, writing that Vivienne was more than just a client — they were friends.

“Those are words I never wanted to write,” Jones said in a second statement. “Viv was a close friend, client and someone I loved dearly. From the moment I met them in 2019, I knew we could make magic together and became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was amazing.”

Jones went on to explain that “no one has ever made me laugh like Viv in my life”, before adding that “their comic genius and sharp wit was second to none”.

“I am so proud and happy that Viv has been such a big part of my life every day for the past 5 years,” the statement continued. “Tragically, their careers have only just begun. In musical theater, Viv found a space and a career that she loved, excelled at, and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated by this news. RIP my amazing friend. You left us too soon.”

Related: ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Stars: Where Are They Now?

They put the bass in walking! RuPaul’s Drag Race introduced drag to mainstream audiences in 2009, but the art form has thrived in the LGBTQ community for decades. RuPaul — whose personality rocketed him to fame in the 1990s — told Us Weekly in 2012 that his idea for the offbeat series was (…)

Vivienne was best known for her time on the hit reality TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race UK — the drag queen won the inaugural series in 2019. Drag Race judge Michelle’s face reacted to the news of Vivienne’s death, calling it “heartbreaking”.

“Your laugh, your wit, your talent, your defiance. I loved it all, but most of all I loved your friendship,” he wrote via Visage Instagram on Sunday. “You were a beacon to so many people… I love you sweetheart. I will miss you so much.”