Drag Star The Vivienne Tragically Dies After Ketamine Use, Family Reveals

James Lee Williams, widely recognized as the drag artist The Vivienne, passed away due to cardiac arrest resulting from the impact of using ketamine, according to statements made by their family.

Chanel Williams, the sister of the performer, stated that their family remains “utterly heartbroken” over the loss of the 32-year-old individual. They plan to collaborate with a charitable organization focused on substance abuse to highlight the risks associated with this particular drug.

The victor of “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” passed away at their residence in Cheshire in January, prompting tributes from celebrities and fans across the globe.

A coroner’s inquiry has been set for June.

The Cheshire Police stated that they found nothing suspicious regarding the performer’s demise.

Simon Jones, who manages Williams and is also a close friend, stated that the family believed it was crucial to disclose the details surrounding their passing.

He stated, “By sharing this information, our aim is to increase understanding of the risks associated with continued ketamine use and how it can affect your physical health.”

Williams, who spent his childhood in Colwyn Bay, located in northern Wales, and later relocated to Liverpool, emerged victorious in the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. Following this achievement, he embarked on an eclectic professional journey in television and theater.

Later, they were the sole queen from a UK show to participate in the US edition of Drag Race All Stars.

Their family mentioned that they “added glitter to life” and will be profoundly missed “forevermore.”
emotional vigil in Liverpool
shortly after Williams’ death.

Stars such as vocalist Jade Thirlwall and Ian “H” Watkins from Steps, along with multiple other drag performers,
was present at the funeral along with loved ones and companions
In Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, towards the end of January.

The Vivienne received acclaim for bringing attention to substance abuse issues when they participated in season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, candidly talking about seeking assistance for their ketamine addiction.

The Williams family now aims to carry forward this tradition by collaborating with the substance abuse charity Adferiad on an initiative focused on fostering discussions around drug misuse and dependency.

Representing the family, Ms. Williams stated: “Ketamine is a highly hazardous substance that is increasingly widespread in the United Kingdom.”

By increasing awareness about the risks associated with this substance and assisting those potentially struggling with ketamine dependence, we might find some positivity emerge from such an utter disaster.

Ketamine, which serves as a potent tranquilizer and anesthetic for horses, is a medication with legal approval that allows doctors to prescribe it when necessary, yet its use must be carefully regulated.
Its use as an illicit drug is increasingly prevalent among younger individuals.
.

The number of individuals under 18 seeking drug treatment and citing ketamine as one of their primary issues increased from 335 to 917 from the period of 2020-21 to 2023-24, as reported by the National Drug Treatment Monitoring System in England.

Donna Chavez, a representative for Adferiad, an organization operating a specialized detox and rehab facility, expressed deep gratitude to Williams’ family for their backing.

She stated: “Their bravery in recounting James’ story will aid in increasing crucial awareness about the severe effects that substance use can cause.”

There is an alarming increase in individuals consuming ketamine, frequently without realizing the significant dangers it presents to both their physical and mental well-being.

Through initiating dialogues and addressing misperceptions, we can work towards averting additional catastrophes and assist those who require aid in discovering hope and healing.

If you’re impacted by the topics discussed in this piece, assistance and support can be found at


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• RuPaul expresses his heart was broken following The Vivienne’s passing.
• The body of The Vivienne was discovered in the bathroom, court hears
• The Vivienne’s funeral includes stars, doves, and a crown from Drag Race.