A star-studded crowd gathered in Denbighshire, North Wales, to bid farewell to The Vivienne, the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
The beloved drag artist, whose real name was James Lee Williams, tragically passed away at the age of 32 earlier this month.
A Fitting Goodbye for a Drag Race Champion
The service took place at a church in Denbighshire, with mourners coming together to honor The Vivienne’s legacy.
As the coffin was brought into the church, the crown and scepter—the iconic symbols The Vivienne won on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK—were carried alongside, adding to the poignant atmosphere.
Family members followed closely behind, visibly shaken by the loss.
Celebrity Mourners Pay Their Respects
Among those attending the emotional service were Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Kim Woodburn, Jade Thirlwall, Aston Merrygold, and Claire Sweeney.
Many of the mourners wore green in tribute to The Vivienne, with some also sporting Vivienne Westwood badges on their attire, reflecting the drag queen’s admiration for the iconic designer.
A special tribute also came from those who shared professional memories with The Vivienne.
Aston Merrygold, who worked alongside the star in The Wizard of Oz stage production, appeared visibly saddened as he arrived.
Fellow RuPaul’s Drag Race UK contestants, including Tia Kofi, Baga Chipz, and Cheryl, also attended the service, paying tribute to their colleague.
Floral Tributes Reflect the Life and Legacy of The Vivienne
The funeral procession saw a horse-drawn carriage carrying a coffin adorned with a stunning white floral arrangement.
Floral tributes spelled out “Vivienne,” “James,” and “Son,” while a fourth arrangement in the shape of a witch’s hat honored The Vivienne’s role in the Wizard of Oz stage show.
A Star Who Won Hearts and Conquered Stages
The Vivienne rose to fame as the winner of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and went on to appear on various other shows, including Dancing on Ice, where they placed third.
Known for their larger-than-life persona, The Vivienne represented the UK in the all-winners season of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2022 and starred in the BBC Three show The Vivienne Takes On Hollywood.
A Career Filled with Triumph and Personal Struggles
Born in Colwyn Bay, Wales, James Lee Williams adopted their drag name, “The Vivienne,” inspired by their love for Vivienne Westwood’s fashion.
After moving to Liverpool at 16, Williams began their journey in the makeup industry while developing a passion for drag.
However, their rise to fame was not without its challenges.
Williams openly discussed their battle with drug addiction, which they bravely overcame with professional help.
Final Heartfelt Moments and Tributes from Loved Ones
Just days before their passing, The Vivienne shared a moving post on social media, urging followers to support the LGBTQ+ and HIV charity SAHIR.
The Vivienne was scheduled to return to the stage next month in The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical.
In a deeply emotional tribute, The Vivienne’s ex-husband, David Luford, expressed his heartbreak at the news of their death.
The couple, who had been married for seven years before separating in 2023, shared a close bond, and Luford’s tribute reflected the immense love they had for each other.
Remembering a Legend Who Inspired So Many
The passing of The Vivienne has left a void in the hearts of many, from fans to fellow artists.
The funeral was a moment to remember the incredible talent, resilience, and charisma that defined The Vivienne both on and off the stage.