The Vivienne Net Worth 2025: The Vivienne, born James Lee Williams, was a British drag performer and winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 1 with an estimated net worth of $2 million in 2025 at the time of death, earning income through television appearances, live performances, brand endorsements, and theatrical productions including the UK tour of The Wizard of Oz, while also receiving compensation from Dancing on Ice and various reality TV shows.
Key Facts About The Vivienne
- The Vivienne was a British drag performer who won RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 1.
- Born James Lee Williams on April 12, 1992 in Colwyn Bay, Wales.
- Died in January 2025 at age 32 in Chorlton-by-Backford, Cheshire, England.
- Career spanned from 2015-2025 as a drag queen, singer and TV personality.
- Made history as first drag performer on Dancing on Ice in 2023.
What Led to The Vivienne’s Success in Entertainment?
The Vivienne gained significant recognition after being named the UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2015. This early achievement created opportunities in the entertainment industry, leading to appearances on multiple television shows and ultimately winning the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
How Did The Early Years Shape The Performer?
Born in North Wales, James Lee Williams attended Rydal Penrhos school in Colwyn Bay before moving to Liverpool at age 16. The performer’s Romani heritage and early exposure to drag culture in Liverpool shaped the artistic persona that would become The Vivienne. The name came from Williams’ passion for Vivienne Westwood clothing.
What Defined The Vivienne’s Career Path?
The Vivienne’s career reached new heights after winning RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, resulting in numerous television appearances and performance opportunities. Notable achievements included competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 7 in 2022, placing third on Dancing on Ice in 2023, and starring as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz UK tour.
What Were The Personal Challenges and Triumphs?
The performer faced several personal challenges, including a documented struggle with drug addiction, particularly ketamine. In June 2023, The Vivienne was the victim of a homophobic attack in Liverpool, which led to the conviction of the perpetrator. The performer’s marriage to David Ludford in 2019 ended in divorce in 2023.
How Did The Entertainment Industry Recognize The Vivienne?
Beyond competition wins, The Vivienne received the prestigious Inspiration Award at the 2022 Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards. The performer released music, including the EP “Bitch on Heels” in 2022, and appeared in numerous television shows and web series.
What Was The Impact on British Entertainment?
The Vivienne broke barriers as the first drag performer on Dancing on Ice and helped mainstream drag culture in British entertainment. The performer’s impersonation skills, particularly as Donald Trump, gained widespread recognition and led to various entertainment opportunities.
What Were The Final Professional Activities?
In late 2024, The Vivienne was actively performing in theatrical productions, including The Wizard of Oz tour. The performer’s last social media post on Boxing Day 2024 reflected on the year’s achievements and expressed optimism for 2025.
What Are The Latest Updates Regarding The Vivienne’s Passing?
The tragic news broke in January 2025 through publicist Simon Jones, who confirmed James Lee Williams (The Vivienne) passed away over the weekend. Cheshire Police stated no suspicious circumstances surrounded the death.
The family’s official statement through Simon Jones emphasized their pride in James’s achievements while requesting privacy. Jones later shared: “Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing.”
Notable tributes came from:
- Trinity the Tuck expressing devastation on Instagram
- Blu Hydrangea sharing heartbreak about losing “a dear friend and sister”
- Raja Gemini posting emotional tribute photos
The performer’s final public appearances included:
- “Wicked: Part One” European Premiere in London (November 2024)
- A Boxing Day social media post reflecting on 2024
- Supporting the Sahir LGBTQ+ and HIV charity campaign
The drag community responded with:
- Fan donations to Sahir’s campaign in The Vivienne’s memory
- Liverpool drag venues planning musical tributes
- RuPaul’s Drag Race officially acknowledging the significant loss
The BBC released a statement through Fiona Campbell, controller of youth audience, expressing pride in The Vivienne’s achievements and extending thoughts to family, friends, and fans.
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