The police have shared a fresh update on the tragic death of Ru Paul's Drag Race UK and Dancing on Ice star The Vivienne. The TV star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, sadly passed away at the age of 32 over the weekend. Cheshire Police have now issued a statement regarding the incident.
The force revealed that officers were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, at 12.22pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death. The spokesperson added: "Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner."
The news of The Vivienne's death was confirmed on Sunday by publicist and friend Simon Jones. He tweeted: "It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
"James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve," reports the Mirror.
Simon shared a heartfelt tribute to The Vivienne, expressing his deep pride and discussing their special connection. He said: "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.
"Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other."
He went on: "I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon."
Tragically, The Vivienne's last public outing was merely a week before their untimely passing. They were seen performing in Blackpool, where they were starring as The Childcatcher in the West End hit Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
The Vivienne, a beloved drag performer, made a heartfelt plea on Instagram just days before their untimely passing, encouraging fans to support SAHIR House, Liverpool's esteemed LGBTQ+ and HIV charity. The star 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."
Celebrities have been pouring out tributes since the news of The Vivienne's death broke, with Michelle Visage expressing her devastation, saying: "I don't have the words. Utterly heartbroken."
Brian Dowling shared his sorrow saying: "Simon this is absolutely heartbreaking," and Lisa Riley from Emmerdale said she was simply "broken" ending her message with crying emojis.
Dean McCullough, who appeared on 'I'm A Celebrity' with The Vivienne, reminded everyone to stay connected with loved ones, posting: "I'm lost for words. Check in on your mates. Tell your people you love them. The sky is a lot more sparkly tonight with our Viv up there. I'll miss you girl. Love you."
