The family of drag icon The Vivienne, also known as James Lee Williams, honored their memory with a heartfelt vigil in Liverpool on Sunday night.
Described as someone who “brought the sparkle to life,” The Vivienne was celebrated by hundreds gathered at St George’s Hall, where the landmark was lit in green to symbolize their role in The Wizard of Oz.
The crowd swayed to the emotional tune of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, holding their phone torches high in tribute.
The Vivienne, who passed away at the age of 32, rose to prominence as the winner of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
Their family expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, calling them a “son, brother, uncle, and true icon.”
Reflecting on their journey, the family noted James’s unwavering determination to make their dreams a reality despite challenges.
They shared their pride in The Vivienne’s accomplishments and their enduring love, promising to cherish their memory forever.
During the vigil, The Vivienne’s young niece Isabella delivered a touching message, thanking attendees and declaring her love for her uncle.
Performances and speeches followed, with Joey & the Hot Tub Boys delivering renditions of Heart of Stone by Cher and Heroes by David Bowie.
Friends and colleagues, including Danny Beard, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK series four, described The Vivienne as a “shining beacon of light” and a force who encouraged living authentically and unapologetically.
The event, organized with the help of Sahir House, Liverpool’s oldest LGBTQ+ charity, underscored The Vivienne’s impact as a charity ambassador.
Their publicist Simon Jones remembered them as a kind, talented, and incredibly funny individual who brought love and warmth to everyone around them.
Presenter Holly Willoughby also paid tribute to The Vivienne on Dancing on Ice, recalling their impressive journey to the 2023 final of the show.
RuPaul Charles, host of DragCon UK, honored The Vivienne by celebrating love and life, encouraging fans to live freely in their memory.
Born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, The Vivienne attended Rydal Penrhos before leaving at 16 to pursue their dreams in Liverpool as a make-up artist.
They later found success performing in Gran Canaria, where a simultaneous vigil was held.
The Vivienne’s career flourished, with appearances on All Stars 7, Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, Dancing on Ice, and Emmerdale.
The Vivienne’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
From fellow drag queens to global stars like Michelle Visage and Ariana Grande, the tributes reflected their far-reaching influence.
The Vivienne will be remembered not just for their immense talent, but for their courage, humor, and the joy they brought to countless lives.
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