The first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, James Lee Williams—known as The Vivienne—was found dead in their bathtub earlier this year. The inquest brought new details to light about the circumstances of their death at age 32. A neighbor found Williams after a friend became worried after failing to reach them.
The court heard that Williams had privately struggled with ketamine addiction and had relapsed following years of sobriety. Although Williams had spoken about addiction on the show, their family was unaware until now. Neighbor Janine Godbold described how she and her son gained entry to Williams’ home after a friend’s concern. She found the house lit but silent, and in the bathroom, Williams appeared to be sleeping in the bath. She tried to help but emergency responders confirmed Williams had been dead for some time.
Senior Coroner Jacqueline Devonish ruled the death as misadventure caused by cardiac arrest due to drug use, with no evidence of intent to take their own life. This tragic case reveals the private challenges faced by a beloved performer whose legacy continues to resonate.
