The cause of death of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne has been confirmed by their family.
The Welsh performer, real name James Lee Williams, died from cardiac arrest due to the effects of ketamine, their relatives revealed.
The 32-year-old was found dead at home in Cheshire in January, shocking the entertainment world and leaving fans devastated.
Family Raises Awareness on Ketamine Dangers
In a statement, The Vivienne’s sister, Chanel Williams, said their family remains “completely devastated” by the tragic loss.
“Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK. 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.”
Rising Concerns Over Ketamine Use
According to drug education service Talk to Frank, ketamine is a powerful anaesthetic that can cause serious harm. The drug can:
- Increase heart rate and blood pressure
- Lead to bladder problems and abdominal pain
- Cause liver damage
- Be fatal, especially when mixed with other substances
The family’s decision to share details of The Vivienne’s passing has been praised by drug awareness campaigners.
Donna Chavez of Wales-based Adferiad Mental Health and Addiction Support Services thanked them for their courage:
“By opening conversations and challenging misconceptions, we can help prevent further tragedies and support those in need to find hope and recovery.”
The Vivienne’s Legacy
The Vivienne had previously spoken about their struggles with substance abuse during their time on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The drag icon gained worldwide recognition after winning the first season of Drag Race UK in 2019 and later placed third in Dancing on Ice in 2023.
Tributes flooded social media after their passing, with fellow Drag Race judge Michelle Visage saying she was “heartbroken”.
The Vivienne’s former husband, David Ludford, also shared a poignant tribute:
“I will miss you more than people will ever know.”
Police Investigation & Inquest
Cheshire Police confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding The Vivienne’s death.
An official inquest into the case is scheduled for June.
Their manager, Simon Jones, expressed hope that the news will raise awareness of the dangers of ketamine misuse:
“We hope by releasing this information, we can prevent more tragedies like this and help those struggling with addiction.”
The Vivienne, whose stage name was inspired by designer Vivienne Westwood, was remembered by Jones as:
“An incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.”