The Vivienne’s cause of death revealed as Drag Race icon’s family shares warning

The Vivienne, the Vivienne’s James Lee Williams, passed away at the age of 32, a spokesperson has revealed the cause of their heartbreaking passing.

A cause of death has been confirmed for The Vivienne – real name James Lee Williams – almost three months on from their heartbreaking death. The late star’s family’s commendable response to their loved one’s passing has also been shared publicly.

On Sunday, January 5, the Drag Race UK star’s manager, Simon Jones, confirmed that The Vivienne had passed away at the age of just 32. No cause of death was given at the time of the announcement, but a spokesperson has now shared more details about the tragic loss.

The late Drag Race icon’s manager and friend Simon confirmed that James had passed away “from the effects of ketamine use causing a cardiac arrest” in a statement released this evening to Attitude.

He continued, “I hope that by releasing this information, we can raise awareness about the risks of continuing to use ketamine and what harm it can do to your body. I don’t believe the full risks of the drug are being discussed because it is becoming more prevalent, especially among young people.

The Vivienne’s family has also announced a partnership with a UK-based charity that assists people who struggle with substance use and mental health issues. Their collaboration with Aderiad will help people who need support find relief from the risks of using ketamine.

“James’ sudden passing is still devastating us,” we are. The Vivienne’s sister Chanel Williams discussed the need for better education regarding the risks associated with taking drugs like ketamine and discussed the need for better education on the subject. “Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” Chanel Williams, The Vivienne’s sister, told Attitude this evening.

The Vivienne’s manager was the first to make the announcement that she had passed away that weekend on the 5th. Our dear James Lee Williams, The Vivienne, passed away this weekend, according to Simon.

James was a truly wonderful, warm-hearted, and amazing person. Losing their son, brother, and uncle has devastated their families. They are so proud of what James accomplished throughout their lives and careers. No further information will be made available from us. Please allow James’s family the time and space they require to process and grieve.

The heartbreaking news prompted an outpouring of tributes from friends and fans from across the world, with Simon himself following up: “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.

“Every room was awestruck by how brilliant and brilliantly lit they were.” In my life, Viv has never laughed as much as I have. Their comic genius and quickness were unparalleled. I’m so happy that Viv has been a major part of my life for the past five years. Their career was only just beginning, which is tragic. In musical theater, Viv and Viv found a place and a career they admired, enjoyed, and cherished. This news has me devastated and heartbroken. RIP, my wonderful friend. You left us too soon, you know?

Just days before her passing, The Vivienne’s final social media posts suggested she had big plans for 2025. In her last post on Instagram, she urged fans to donate to SAHIR, Liverpool’s largest and oldest LGBTQ+ and HIV charity. James wrote: “Join me in giving back this year, everything I do charitable wise is usually for @sahirhouse house, Liverpools oldest LGBT+ charity!!! The work they do is incredible, thank you. £1 a month you won’t miss it.”

On December 26, the Dancing on Ice star again hinted that she was involved in major projects as she looked back at her achievements from 2024 and wished for an equally successful future. James shared a selection of photos showing their impressive career, from TV appearances to stepping into musical theatre.

They also wrote: “Some ’24 highlights,”” along with the annual roundup. What a year has it been. In 25 years, you can achieve new heights and goals. Wishing everyone a prosperous new year. You are aware of this. In honor of her work in The Wizard of Oz, The Vivienne signed off with kisses for her followers and added three green hearts to the post.

Source: Mirror