When did The Vivienne die? Drag star’s family shares cause of death 

The sudden death of The Vivienne, the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, on 5 January 2025, left the entertainment industry in grief. Born James Lee Williams, the popular drag performer passed suddenly at the age of 32. An inquest has now formally verified that ketamine-induced heart failure was the cause of their demise. Discussions on the risks of substance usage have been rekindled as a result of the devastating news, which has shocked the drag and LGBTQ+ communities.

Their body was found in January 2025 at their Cheshire home. An inquest was launched on 12 February. Under the direction of coroner Victoria Davies, the autopsy concluded that ketamine poisoning was the cause of The Vivienne's fatal cardiac arrest. The death was ruled accidental after authorities failed to find any indication of foul play.

Chanel Williams, sister of the British drag queen born James Lee Williams, confirmed to the BBC on Monday that her sibling died from a drug-induced cardiac arrest. The heart abnormality occurred due to "the effects of taking ketamine."

Their manager, Simon Jones, informed their fans through his Instagram stories.

"James's family and I feel it is important to say how James tragically died. We hope that by us releasing this information we can raise awareness about the dangers of ongoing ketamine usage and what it can do to your body."

He added,

"Ketamine usage is on the rise, particularly amongst young people, and I don't think the full dangers of the drug are being discussed."

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Tributes pour in for The Vivienne

Messages and tributes have come pouring in for The Vivienne, from all over the world. The Vivienne's impact on LGBTQ+ is well known. Fans, colleagues and celebrities have all paid their tribute.

Even the creator of Drag Race, RuPaul Charles, dropped a message about their passing through an Instagram post with the caption,

"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,"

Michelle Visage, who was the co-judge of the show, also penned a note for the late celebrity, writing,

"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."

James's family is working with Adferiad, a UK-based organization that helps people with drug abuse and mental health issues, in reaction to their loss. The partnership seeks to raise awareness of ketamine's dangers and guarantee that individuals in need may get the assistance they want.

Celebrities like Ian H. Watkins, Marcus Collins, Jada Thirlwall, and several other drag queens attended The Vivienne's funeral in Liverpool.

The Vivienne's legacy will live on inspiring many others.

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