RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne’s cause of death has been revealed two months after their death.
The Vivienne’s manager, Simon Jones, confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE that the drag artist — born James Lee Williams in Colwyn Bay, Wales — died “from the effects of ketamine use causing a cardiac arrest.”
“James’s family and I feel it is important to say how James tragically died. It was from the effects of ketamine use causing a cardiac arrest,” he said.
Jones noted there will be “a formal inquest” into The Vivienne’s death in June.
“I hope that by us releasing this information we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do your body,” he continued. “Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don’t think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed.”
Jones also announced they are teaming up with Adferiad, which is a UK-based charity that “campaigns for and provides services to people affected by mental ill health, drug or alcohol use, gambling harms, and other challenging circumstances,” according to their website.
“We hope that by working with Adferiad we can raise vital awareness and give information on how to get help if you are struggling with ketamine usage.”
The performer’s sister, Chanel Williams, added in a statement to Attitude: “We continue to be completely devastated by James’s sudden death.”
“Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” she shared. “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.”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
The announcement comes after World of Wonder, the media company behind the Drag Race franchise, announced a new documentary, Dear Viv, is now in production with “the blessing of James’ family and friends.”
“The heartfelt documentary, made by, and featuring those that knew and loved them, will detail the life and legacy of The Vivienne and pay tribute to the beloved drag superstar who left an indelible mark on the world before their passing in January 2025,” according to an official synopsis.
“Through a compelling blend of archival footage, intimate interviews with loved ones including Baga Chipz, Michael Marouli & Danny Beard, and deeply personal letters from fans, the film sensitively traces James’s journey from humble beginnings in North Wales to their meteoric rise on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK,” the description continues. “Showcasing their unbreakable spirit, quickfire and hilarious wit and undeniable talent that came to define them, the documentary aims to be more than just a celebration of a dazzling career, but also to honour their profound impact on the drag community and beyond; ensuring that The Vivienne’s legacy continues to shine.”
Jones first announced the performer’s death in a Jan. 5 post on X. “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” Jones wrote in a statement.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person,” it continued. “Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.”
The comment section quickly filled with reactions from Drag Race alums and fans, with one contestant named Shea Coulée writing, “I’m in complete and utter shock. This is so devastating.”
“I’m so sorry 💔. I’m in total shock,” UK drag queen Bimini Bon-Boulash said.
The following day, RuPaul paid tribute to The Vivienne, who was crowned the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season 1 and returned for RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season 7 as the only non-U.S. winner invited to participate.
“With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne — an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being,” RuPaul shared in an Instagram post dedicated to the late performer.
In their own X post, the official RuPaul’s Drag Race account remembered The Vivienne as well.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne,” it read. “Her talent, humor and dedication to the art of drag was an inspiration. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on as a beacon of creativity and authenticity — she embodied what it means to be a true champion. Our hearts go out to her family and fans during this difficult time.”
Michelle Visage, a judge on the show, shared two sweet snaps of her and The Vivienne on Instagram.
“Heartbreaking 💔. I don’t know how to say how I feel,” the caption said. “My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point. Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many.”
World of Wonder, the production company behind Drag Race, also honored The Vivienne on social media: “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of James Lee Williams, AKA The Vivienne this weekend. Her talent, humor and kindness were an inspiration. She achieved so much in her career and will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and friends, who request the time and privacy required to grieve.”
Read the full article here
