Dancing On Ice returned to ITV this evening with a moving tribute to former contestant The Vivienne after the RuPaul’s Drag Race star’s sudden death earlier this month
Dancing On Ice kicked off its 2025 series with a moving tribute to former celebrity contestant The Vivienne.
The first RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner’s death at the age of 32 was announced by the publicist earlier this month, with tribute pouring in from across the world for the trailblazing star. The Vivienne, born James Lee Williams, made history in 2023 as the first drag queen to compete on the ITV series.
They were partnered with Colin Grafton during their time on the show and finished in third place. In the wake of The Vivienne’s passing, Colin paid tribute to his late skating partner, saying: “They truly brought light into every room they entered and gave so many people hope where there was none.”
As the show returned for a new series this evening, hosts Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern paid tribute to The Vivienne. As the 2025 cast was introduced to viewers, Holly paused the show to share the touching statement. “Before we move on, like us, many of you have been saddened by the tragedy of The Vivienne’s passing last weekend,” Holly began telling ITV viewers.
“Now, they were a huge part of the show, making it all the way to the final in 2023 and they’ll be very sorely missed, the former This Morning presenter continued. “Our thoughts are with The Vivienne’s loved ones at this sad time. So sad.”
“Absolutely,” Stephen agreed, before changing tone to say: “Ok, tonight’s we’ll see our first six couples take to the ice – the other six couples will perform next week – so lets crack on with the very first celebrity.” Viewers were left divided by the brief tribute, with many on social media admitting they expected more.
The Vivienne made history with stint on Dancing On Ice in 2023 (
Image:
PA)
Image:
PA)
Earlier this week, the Mirror exclusively revealed that Dancing On Ice would dedicate an emotional tribute to The Vivienne’s memory. A source said: “The Dancing on Ice team has been rocked by the sad news. The Vivienne was a much loved contestant during their time on the show and broke ground by being the first drag artist to compete. There will be a tribute on Sundays launch, everyone’s in agreement that it’s only right to pay respects. It’s a tragic loss. Everyone working close to the show’s thoughts go out to the Vivienne’s family and friends.”
The Vivienne, who was born in Wales, adopted the drag name as they were known for wearing Vivienne Westwood clothing. They performed as the wicked witch of the west in a UK and Ireland tour of The Wizard Of Oz musical and reprised the role in the West End at the Gillian Lynne Theatre last year. They were due to be back on tour next month performing in the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical in the role of The Childcatcher.
Colin concluded with: “I will always be so proud of what we accomplished. Viv, your spirit, strength, and kindness will always stay with me and with everyone you touched. I will forever cherish our time together on and off the ice , you will forever be my Mary Poppins. I promise to carry your memory with me in everything I do. You taught me so much about so many things, and I am eternally grateful. Your legacy lives on.”
Dancing On Ice judge Oti Mabuse has remembered The Vivienne for being a “phenomenal entertainer” and “trailblazer”. Oti said “some news hits you harder than others and stops you in your tracks” after news of the death was announced. “I absolutely loved the viv,” the former Strictly Come Dancing star wrote alongside a picture of the pair on Instagram. “A beautiful human being, funny, kind, a trailblazer, creative and so warm. You were such an asset on Dancing On Ice , one of the greatest on Drag Race and just a phenomenal entertainer on screen and theatre.”
