RuPaul’s Drag Race Star The Vivienne Was Unseen for Days Before Being Found in Bath

30 June 2025

James Lee Williams found fame performing as drag artist The Vivienne

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner, The Vivienne born James Lee Williams tragically lost their life on January 5, leaving the drag community and fans reeling when a coroner’s inquest revealed they had been in their bathtub for days before being discovered. The official hearing at Cheshire Coroner’s Court on June 30 provided a devastating reconstruction of events that began when friends, concerned by a sudden lack of contact, alerted a neighbor to check in. When the neighbor entered the home, they found The Vivienne submerged in cold, discolored water, the body already showing signs of rigor mortis, a chilling confirmation that days had passed since their final moments of life.

The inquest exposed a harrowing detail: a toxicology report uncovered high levels of ketamine in The Vivienne’s system. Forensic pathologists determined the cause of death was cardio-respiratory arrest attributable to the drug. The coroner officially ruled the death a “misadventure,” indicating that the excess ketamine was accidental, not intentional.

First responders painted a stark picture: paramedics arrived to find water murky and cold, The Vivienne’s feet showing the lower-body stiffness typical of several days into rigor mortis, and personal items strewn around the bathroom indicators of a tragic, gradual decline rather than a sudden event.

Despite acknowledging their struggles, loved ones emphasized that drug use did not define The Vivienne. Manager Simon Jones and close friend Bobby Musker recalled their deep warmth, kindness, and influence across entertainment spheres. Musker described their bond of sixteen years and insisted their story must focus on creativity and compassion, not tragedy.

Known for their historic win on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and later appearances on All Stars season 7, The Vivienne also rose to prominence on Dancing on Ice, placing third in 2023. A prodigiously talented drag artist, their career also included music and theatrical performances most notably portraying the Wicked Witch of the West in a UK tour of The Wizard of Oz in 2024.

Their passing has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community and entertainment industry, with admirers hailing both their achievements and advocacy. The court’s findings expose a stark truth about substance misuse complexities, prompting renewed conversations around mental health and support within high-stress creative sectors.

As the inquest concludes, those closest to The Vivienne hope to shift the narrative away from loss to legacy to remember the exuberant artistry and compassion that defined their life. Plans are underway to honor their memory through substance recovery fundraising and public awareness campaigns led by family and community allies.

The Vivienne’s final days remain a sobering testament to the hidden battles many face. But above all, their life remains a celebration of authenticity, courageous performance, and an enduring impact that extends far beyond the stage.