Hundreds gather for vigil honouring drag queen The Vivienne

Hundreds gathered to hold a vigil for drag queen The Vivienne on Sunday at St George’s Hall in Liverpool.

The performer, known legally as James Lee Williams, was found dead by family at age 32 earlier this month. They were best known for winning the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, as well as playing the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz musical. The vigil was organised by Liverpool’s oldest LGBT charity, the Sahir House, of which Williams was an ambassador for.

“As a family we are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for James, The Vivienne,” read Bobby Musker, a friend of William’s, in a statement prepared by their family. “From an early age it was evident he was destined for the stage... he was determined to pave his own way in this world.”

William’s young niece Isabella also addressed the crowd.

"Thank you for being here to celebrate my uncle," she said. "I love you Uncle James."

St George’s Hall was lit green in recognition of William’s role in the Wizard of Oz, and fans released balloons alongside the song ‘For Good’ from Wicked.

"I think this is what tonight should be about,” said friend and drag queen Danny Beard. “A celebration of someone who touched the lives of so many.”

Those in attendance also heard performances from Joey & the Hot Tub Boys, covering the song 'Heart of Stone' by Cher and 'Heroes' by David Bowie.

"The Vivienne was one of the world’s most recognisable drag queens, proper world class entertainer and above all a shining beacon in all of our lives and especially for the LGBT [community]," continued Beard.

Since their death, RuPaul’s Drag Race released a statement on X, writing "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."

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of The Vivienne. 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… pic.twitter.com/Kf5biayP9R

— RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) January 5, 2025