Ariana Grande shares tribute following tragic death of Drag Race star The Vivienne aged 32
Ariana Grande has released an emotional tribute in the wake of the death of RuPaul's Drag Race UK star The Vivienne.
The reality television star's death was announced yesterday (5 Jan) on social media, by their publicist Simon Jones.
"It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend," Jones wrote on Instagram.
"James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle.
Advert
"They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career."
The celebrity PR went on to emphasise that no 'further details' surrounding the 32-year-old's death will be released at this time in a bid to ensure their 'family are given the time and privacy to process and grieve'.
Tributes have since come pouring in, including Strictly star Oti Mabuse, who wrote online: "WHAT??? I’m so sorry - this is unbelievable."
Fellow Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash wrote: "I’m so sorry I’m in total shock." And The Vivienne's All Stars 7 co-star Jinkx Monsoon said: "I don’t entirely have words. She has made her mark in our hearts and on her stages. It’s too soon for a curtain call but I know it’s a standing ovation. I love you Viv."
Now, Wicked actress Ariana Grande - who'd previously appeared as a guest judge on the reality TV competition - has also paid tribute to The Vivienne.
Following her appearance at last night's Golden Globes ceremony, the 31-year-old star took to Instagram to share a photo of the star - who was crowned the winner of the first ever UK version of the show.
The photo was captioned with three hearts and an infinity emoji.
The Vivienne had previously played the 'Wicked Witch of the West' in the musical revival of The Wizard of Oz musical, and had recently donned an Elphaba-esque outfit to the London premiere of the movie.
Long-time Drag Race judge Michelle Visage has also paid homage to the star with a lengthy message.
Sharing a snap of the two of them together, she wrote: "Heartbreaking I don't know how to say how I feel. My darling @thevivienne we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK.
"You were always there, always laughing, always giving, always on point."
Michelle added: "Your laughter, your wit, your talent, your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all. You were a beacon to so many.
"Seeing you make your West End debut was amazing for me to witness your dream come true right in front of my eyes,'
'I'm the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times. I love you my darling.
"You will be so missed my lovely. May your light shine fiercely, forever. RIP MY ANGEL fly high".
Topics: Ariana Grande, LGBTQ, Reality TV, Rupauls Drag Race, TV And Film, UK News, US News, The Vivienne
Rhianna Benson