Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, was reportedly found dead by their devastated father and stepmum and had ‘passed away a day or two before being found’

Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK star, The Vivienne, was found dead by their devastated father, according to reports.

The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, was confirmed to have died aged 32 at the weekend. A friend of the drag star as since shared they were found dead by their distraught dad and stepmum on Sunday. Police have previously confirmed they were called to an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, at 12.22pm on Sunday following reports of a sudden death.

The spokesman said: “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 Vivienne’s death was confirmed on Sunday and shared by publicist and pal Simon Jones.

“Their devastated dad raised the alarm and believed they had passed away a day or two before being found,” a source told the Sun. “James was due to move to a £400,000 house next week, and had a holiday lined up. They were planning a tour and really had everything to live for.”

The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died aged 32 at the weekend ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

Announcing The Vivienne’s death, their publicist issued a statement that read: “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.” In a follow-up post, Simon revealed how “proud” he was of The Vivienne and gave an insight into their close bond.

The star was reportedly found dead by their dad ( 
Image:
PA)
He added: “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.

“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.”

The Vivienne’s last public appearance came just a week before their death. They appeared in Blackpool while starring in the West End musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as The Childcatcher. The star also shared a post just days before passing, urging followers to donate to charity.