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 performer's sister, stated that their family remains "utterly heartbroken" over the loss of the 32-year-old individual. They plan to collaborate with a charity focused on substance abuse to highlight the risks associated with this particular drug.

The champion of RuPaul's Drag Race UK passed away at their residence in Cheshire in January, prompting tributes from celebrities and fans globally.

A coroner's inquiry has been set for June.

The Cheshire Police stated that they have found no suspicious elements related to 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 demise.

He stated, "By sharing this information, I hope we can increase understanding of the risks associated with continued ketamine use and how it affects your health."

Williams, who spent his childhood in Colwyn Bay located in northern Wales prior to relocating to Liverpool, emerged victorious as the winner of the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK back in 2019. Since then, he has pursued an eclectic career path encompassing both television and theater work.

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 deeply 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 competed in season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. They bravely talked about seeking assistance for their ketamine addiction during this period.

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 use and addiction.

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

Should we manage to increase understanding of the risks associated with this medication and assist individuals grappling with ketamine dependency, some good could emerge from this utter catastrophe.

Ketamine, which serves as a potent tranquilizer and anesthetic for horses, is a medication with legal approval that can be prescribed for medical use; however, its Its use as an illicit drug is becoming more prevalent among adolescents. .

The number of young people under 18 seeking treatment for substance abuse issues related to ketamine increased significantly in England, rising from 335 cases in 2020-21 to 917 cases in 2023-24. This information comes from the National Drug Treatment Monitoring System.

Donna Chavez, a representative for Adferiad, an organization operating a specialized detox and rehabilitation center, expressed deep gratitude to Williams' family for their backing.

She stated, "Their bravery in recounting James’ story will significantly contribute to raising essential awareness about the destructive effects of substance abuse."

We are observing an alarming increase in the number of 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 preventing additional catastrophes and assist those who require aid in finding hope and healing.

If you're impacted by the topics discussed in this piece, assistance and support can be found here: Action Line .

• RuPaul expresses his heart was broken following The Vivienne's passing.
• The body of Vivienne was discovered in the bathroom, according to what was presented in court.
• The Vivienne's funeral features stars, doves, and a Drag Race crown.