Key Takeaways
- The Vivienne rose from their beginnings as a drag performer in Liverpool to become the first UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race and later win the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
- Their career expanded beyond drag competitions to include groundbreaking achievements like being the first drag artist on Dancing on Ice, releasing music, and starring in theatrical productions.
- While achieving significant professional success with an estimated net worth of $5 million, The Vivienne was also known for their openness about personal struggles and advocacy for addiction awareness.
James Lee Williams, widely known as The Vivienne, was a popular figure in the world of drag and entertainment.
Before their untimely passing, The Vivienne’s net worth was estimated to be over $5 million, reflecting a career filled with success and achievements.
Rise To Stardom
Born on April 12, 1992, in Wales, The Vivienne began their drag career in Liverpool and quickly gained recognition for their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent.
In 2015, they were named the first-ever UK Drag Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race.
This recognition paved the way for their historic win as the champion of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019.
Following their victory, The Vivienne became a household name in the drag community, celebrated for their wit, humor, and polished performances.
Career Highlights And Achievements
The Vivienne’s career soared after their Drag Race win. They competed on the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars in 2022, demonstrating their growth as a performer.
In 2023, The Vivienne broke new ground as the first drag artist to compete on the UK’s popular show Dancing on Ice, finishing in third place.
Expanding beyond reality TV, The Vivienne released their debut EP, Bitch on Heels, in 2022 and starred as the Wicked Witch of the West in the 2024 UK tour of The Wizard of Oz.
Their ventures in music, theatre, and television contributed significantly to their estimated net worth.
Despite their public success, The Vivienne was open about personal challenges, including struggles with addiction.
They credited The Armistead Centre in Liverpool with helping them overcome these difficulties and often used their platform to raise awareness about addiction and mental health.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The Vivienne proudly represented both their Welsh and Romani cultural roots,
- Their distinctive stage name was inspired by their frequent wearing of Vivienne Westwood fashion, with the addition of “The” making it their own unique identity.
- Beginning their journey in Liverpool’s drag scene, they built their reputation performing at local venues like Superstar Boudoir.
