RuPaul recently addressed the public for the first time since the tragic passing of The Vivienne, a former winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
The drag icon attended the opening of DragCon UK at ExCeL London on Friday, alongside his close friend, Michelle Visage, to honor the Welsh-born star who passed away at the age of 32 last week.
The event was filled with emotional tributes as RuPaul and Visage celebrated The Vivienne’s life and legacy.
RuPaul’s Emotional Words and the Memorial Wall for The Vivienne
At the event, RuPaul, visibly moved, spoke to the audience, urging everyone to focus on love and life as they remember The Vivienne.
He expressed, “We are here to celebrate life and celebrate love and to spread it around,” and highlighted how The Vivienne would want everyone to live freely, have fun, and spread positivity.
DragCon UK organizers set up a memorial wall and books where fans could leave heartfelt messages.
One message read, “The UK winner’s circle has lost its crown jewel,” while others said, “Thank you for sharing your love and light with us.”
The Police Investigation and Sudden Death of The Vivienne
The Vivienne’s unexpected death has left fans and the drag community in shock.
Cheshire Police confirmed that they were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford at 12:22 pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death.
A spokesperson for the police stated that while the death of the 32-year-old performer was under investigation, there were no suspicious circumstances, and a file would be prepared for the coroner.
RuPaul Contemplates Stepping Down Amid Grief Over The Vivienne’s Death
Following The Vivienne’s passing, sources close to RuPaul revealed that the grieving host is deeply affected by the loss of one of his brightest stars.
The Vivienne, who had been a part of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK since the first season, was someone with whom RuPaul shared a special bond.
Reports indicate that RuPaul is seriously considering stepping down from his hosting duties for the UK show, stating that he believes the show is in “good hands” with his co-presenters, Michelle Visage, Alan Carr, and Graham Norton.
With a packed filming schedule and his advancing age, RuPaul is weighing his future on the show.
RuPaul Responds to Tyra Sanchez’s Controversial Tweet About The Vivienne
The death of The Vivienne has sparked controversy, especially after Tyra Sanchez, a former Drag Race winner, posted a scathing tweet following the news of her passing.
Sanchez, who had a public feud with The Vivienne, shared a controversial comment referencing her death.
Fans of The Vivienne reacted strongly, calling Sanchez’s words cruel and disrespectful.
RuPaul, in response to the backlash, posted a throwback video on Instagram, mocking Sanchez during a Drag Race acting challenge.
Tyra Sanchez Faces Backlash After Provoking Fans Over The Vivienne’s Death
Despite the widespread outrage over her tweet, Tyra Sanchez doubled down on her actions, claiming that the negative reactions were a way for people to give her attention.
Her posts about The Vivienne’s death, including a tweet about a crematorium, continued to draw criticism from fans and fellow drag performers.
Many labeled her behavior as “disgusting” and “despicable,” further intensifying the already heated social media backlash.
The Vivienne’s Legacy in the Drag Community
The Vivienne, born James Lee Williams, was a beloved figure in the drag community, known for her wit, humor, and distinctive style.
She gained recognition as the British drag ambassador for the US version of RuPaul’s Drag Race before making history as the winner of the first UK edition in 2019.
Beyond the show, The Vivienne also appeared in RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and showcased her talents in other performances, including her appearance as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz.
RuPaul Reflects on The Vivienne’s Impact as Drag Queen and Performer
During his tribute at DragCon UK, RuPaul fondly reflected on The Vivienne’s unique impact in the drag scene.
Describing her as a “crown jewel,” he celebrated her infectious energy and the mark she left on both the UK and global drag communities.
Her style, rooted in her love for fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, made her stand out, and her vibrant personality and talent captivated audiences worldwide.
Fans Continue to Mourn The Vivienne and Celebrate Her Legacy
As DragCon UK continues, fans are taking time to remember The Vivienne, sharing their memories and tributes through the memorial wall.
The event has become a place of reflection, as the drag community and fans from all over the world mourn the loss of one of their brightest stars.
The messages left by attendees show just how much of an impact The Vivienne had on those around her.
A Look Back at The Vivienne’s Iconic Career and Achievements
The Vivienne’s journey in the spotlight began in 2015, and since then, she became an iconic figure in the drag community.
Her victory on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK marked a milestone in her career, and she continued to rise in prominence, with major achievements such as her third-place finish in Dancing on Ice 2023.
Through her artistry and resilience, The Vivienne will always be remembered as a trailblazer who made her mark both on and off the stage.