Hundreds of people are expected to gather in Liverpool tonight to pay respects to drag icon The Vivienne. The city was shocked to hear of the 32-year-old star’s death, confirmed last weekend by their publicist, Simon Jones.
In a touching Instagram post Simon paid tribute to the TV personality, whose real name is James Lee Williams and who kicked off their career on the city’s Stanley Street in the Pride Quarter, explaining how they weren’t just a client but a cherished friend. Simon said: “James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.
“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.”
Since the news broke on Sunday, January 5, tributes have been pouring in from all over the world and no more so than from Liverpool – the city where The Vivienne made a name for herself before being catapulted to fame after winning the first series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
Tonight (Sunday, January 12) a vigil will be taking place at 6pm with crowds expected to gather outside St George’s Plateau. The Vivienne’s family is expected to attend as well as representatives from the city’s Pride Quarter venues.
Follow our blog below as we bring you live updates from the vigil this evening.