The UK’s first RuPaul’s Drag Race winner The Vivienne – whose real name was James Lee Williams – tragically died aged just 32 in January this year
The Vivienne has been honoured posthumously at the 2025 Attitude Awards, which took place in London last night.
The annual ceremony honoured the family of the late RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star – whose real name was James Lee Williams – after their death in January this year aged 32 following a cardiac arrest caused by ketamine.
Since Vivienne’s death, their family has campaigned to raise awareness of the dangers of ketamine, while addiction centre The House of The Vivienne has been set up to help those in need.
Their sister Chanel Williams broke down in tears as she accepted the Inspiration Award at the 2025 Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards, powered by Jaguar.
READ MORE: ‘Heartbreaking’ BBC documentary Dear Viv leaves viewers in tears after tragic death
She said: “It’s an honour to be here tonight and to be receiving the very award that The Vivienne received in 2022. By definition, to be an inspiration is to use your actions, character and story to encourage others to do or achieve something – and The Vivienne did just that.
“She paved the way for the art of drag within the UK, she opened up doors that had never been opened, and she was proof that dreams really do come true.
“But above all, she stood fiercely with her community. A community that I am so proud to be an ally of – a community that, through the most difficult of times, has taken us in, supported us, protected us, and shown us the best parts of humanity.”
Chanel added that her whole family was “extremely honoured” by the recognition as they have spent months trying to “reduce stigma around addiction”.
She continued: “I stand here tonight as James’ sister, and on behalf of our family, extremely honoured to be recognised for this award.
“Since James’ passing, as a family we have campaigned to reduce stigma around addiction, to push for systemic changes, and to continue The Vivienne’s work in helping others.”
Concluding her speech, she added: “In 2022, The Vivienne accepted this award – and tonight, I accept this award on behalf of James, my brother, and my inspiration.”
During the ceremony, Bimini, Tia Kofi, Bentley Robles, Eden Hunter and Janethan performed new song Your Light Will Shine in memory of The Vivienne. Elsewhere on the night – which was hosted by Grace Kelly hitmaker Mika – Russell Tovey was named Man of the Year with Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies presenting the prize.
Naked Attraction host Anna Richardson presented Elizabeth Hurley with the Honorary Gay Award, while Josh Cavallo gave Dannii Minogue the Ally Award.
Other winners included Gok Wan with the Icon Award, Campbell Addy (Creator’s Award), Luke Evans (Book Award), Tom Allen (Comedy Award) and Tiara Syke (Drag Award), while What It Feels Like For A Girl star Paris Lees and the rest of the cast received the TV Award.
READ MORE: Final few hours to shop best Amazon Prime Day 2025 deals including Apple and Dyson
Source: Mirror
Leave a Reply