Former Drag Race UK champion The Vivienne‘s death was determined to be caused by a cardiac arrest following ketamine use.
The BBC received confirmation from the family of James Lee Williams, who performed under the stage name The Vivienne, regarding their decision to disclose the circumstances surrounding the TV star’s passing before the official inquest.
“Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” The Vivienne’s sister Chanel Williams told the BBC. “If we can help raise awareness of the dangers of this drug and help people who may be dealing with ketamine addiction then something positive will come from this complete tragedy.”
The inquest examining The Vivienne’s death is scheduled for June.
The groundbreaking first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK was discovered lifeless at their residence on January 5. The Vivienne first gained recognition in drag circles in 2015, after being named the UK Drag Ambassador for the acclaimed reality program RuPaul’s Drag Race. The Vivienne made history as the first drag artist to participate in Dancing on Ice in 2023, joining Season 15’s cast, and marked their West End debut last year.
Following their passing, we’ve learned that the Drag Race production team is creating Dear Viv, a documentary honoring the performer’s impact and achievements.
RIP
