The Vivienne, a star of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK, was tragically found dead by their heartbroken father, reports have revealed. The performer, whose real name was James Lee Williams, was confirmed to have passed away at the age of 32 over the weekend.

A close friend of the drag queen has since shared that they were discovered by their distraught father and stepmother on Sunday. Authorities had previously confirmed that they were called to a residence in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, at 12.22pm on Sunday following reports of an unexpected death.

A police spokesperson stated: “Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”

The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died aged 32 at the weekend ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
The news of The Vivienne’s passing was confirmed on Sunday and shared by their publicist and friend, Simon Jones. “Their devastated dad raised the alarm and believed they had passed away a day or two before being found,” a source told the Sun.

“James was due to move to a $500,000 house next week, and had a holiday lined up. They were planning a tour and really had everything to live for.”

Announcing The Vivienne’s death, their publicist released a statement saying: “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.”

In a heartfelt tribute, Simon expressed his admiration for The Vivienne, reflecting on their special relationship. He said: “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 wit was like no other.”

“I’m so proud and lucky 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.”

The Vivienne’s final public appearance was just a week before their untimely passing, performing in Blackpool in the West End production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as The Childcatcher. Days before their death, the star also took to social media to encourage fans to support a charitable cause,