James Lee Williams, better known by the professional name The Vivienne, was a celebrated British drag performer renowned for their charisma, talent, and groundbreaking contributions to the drag. Born and raised in North Wales, Williams began their journey into drag in Liverpool, quickly establishing themselves as a prominent figure in the UK drag scene.
While their exact net worth remains private, estimates suggest it could be around $5 million, though this figure has not been confirmed. Tragically, The Vivienne passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by fans worldwide.
The Vivienne’s Net Worth
While James Lee Williams, professionally known as The Vivienne, kept financial details private, their net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, though this figure remains unconfirmed. This estimate stems from their successful career, including drag performances, music releases, television appearances, and brand collaborations.
Early Life and Education
- Birthplace: North Wales
- Heritage: Romani
- Education: Attended Rydal Penrhos in Colwyn Bay
- Moved to Liverpool at age 16, where their drag career began.
Career Milestones
2015: Appointed UK Drag Ambassador
- Crowned as the UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race in a competition judged by RuPaul, Katie Price, and Jonathan Ross.
- Made a cameo in RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8 in 2016.
2019: Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Season 1
- Crowned the “First Drag Superstar” of the UK.
- Notable impersonation of Donald Trump in the Snatch Game challenge.
Post-Win Projects
- Collaborated with Jaguar Cars and Attitude magazine for a charity racing event, raising awareness for Sahir House, an HIV-focused charity.
- Toured with the RuPaul’s Drag Race UK cast, hosted by Alyssa Edwards.
2020: The Vivienne Takes on Hollywood
- Starred in a six-part series documenting the creation of a music video in Los Angeles.
2022: Return to RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars
- Competed in Season 7, the winners’ edition of the Drag Race franchise.
2023: Dancing on Ice
- Became the first drag performer to compete on the UK reality show Dancing on Ice, finishing in third place.
Music Releases
- Debut single “Tonight” (May 2020) – described as a “dance-pop banger.”
- Covered “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” as a tribute to Pete Burns.
- Released “Bitch on Heels” (2021), written by Diane Warren.
- Collaborated with Tia Kofi on “Jingle Bell Rock” (2021).
Personal Life
- Pronouns: They/Them
- Identified as a gay man.
- Experienced a homophobic attack in June 2023, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Openly discussed their struggles with drug addiction, including ketamine.
Ex- Husband
- Married David Ludford in 2019; separated in April 2023.
Death
- On January 5, 2025, The Vivienne was found deceased in Chorlton-by-Backford.
- Authorities confirmed the death as “not suspicious.”
- Tributes poured in from the Drag Race community, with RuPaul and Michelle Visage expressing profound grief over the loss.
- The Vivienne is the first winner of the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise to pass away.
Legacy
The Vivienne will be remembered as a trailblazer who broke barriers, inspired countless fans, and used their platform to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Their vibrant career, coupled with their commitment to authenticity and creativity, ensures their legacy will endure for years to come.
