World of Wonder, the production company behind RuPaul’s Drag Race, has revealed plans for a new documentary focused on the late James Lee Williams, better known as Drag Race UK’s inaugural winner, The Vivienne. Titled Dear Viv, the documentary aims to celebrate Williams’s life and legacy, utilizing rare archival footage, deeply personal letters from fans, and new interviews with friends and colleagues, including Danny Beard, Baga Chipz, and Michael Marouli.
The project, which has the support of Williams’s family and close friends, will provide an intimate portrait of the performer who made history as the first-ever winner of Drag Race UK. While the documentary’s release date has not been announced, it promises to highlight Williams’s remarkable contributions to the drag community and her undeniable talent.
“We want to celebrate The Vivienne’s extraordinary life and work so everyone can experience her incredible talent, sass, and enormous heart,” said Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, co-founders of World of Wonder and executive producers of Dear Viv. “Although her stay here on Earth was far too brief, it is with tremendous admiration and affection that we share her legacy in ‘Dear Viv.’”
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Williams was found dead at his home in January of this year, with a subsequent coroner’s report confirming the cause of death as “unnatural causes.” The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the drag community, with many of his fellow Drag Race UK stars and colleagues expressing their sorrow and tributes on social media.
Baga Chipz, a fellow competitor from the first season of Drag Race UK, shared a heartfelt tribute, calling Williams “my beautiful, talented, mad, bestest friend in the whole wide world.” She described Williams not only as a sister but also as a brother, recalling their time together on the show. “You taught me the true meaning of sisterhood, but more importantly, you taught me how to do a cut crease,” Chipz wrote. “I’m sending all my love to your mama and family, me and the girls will always be there for them. I’m gonna bloody miss you, friend. Get the drinks in for me, love. I love you.”
A vigil was held in Liverpool, Williams’s hometown, where his family issued an emotional statement remembering his life. “As a family, we are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for James, The Vivienne,” they said. “From an early age, it was evident they were destined for the stage… they were determined to pave their own way in this world. The road was not easy, but the dream never, ever changed, and James would always tell us that they would make it happen, and they did. We will miss you for an eternity, and for an eternity, we will all love you.”
Williams was widely recognized for his charisma, quick wit, and exceptional drag performance skills, which made him a standout on the first season of Drag Race UK. His win in the inaugural season cemented his place in the hearts of fans and made him an influential figure in the global drag community.
In addition to his Drag Race success, Williams’s career spanned across television, music, and live performances, where he became a beloved figure in the entertainment world. His distinctive style and larger-than-life personality helped shape the visibility and acceptance of drag culture.
Dear Viv promises to offer an inside look at Williams’s journey, featuring candid reflections from those who knew him best and showcasing his incredible impact on the world of drag and beyond. The documentary is expected to be a heartfelt tribute to a star whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of drag performers.
The announcement of Dear Viv has been met with anticipation from both fans and the drag community, eager to celebrate Williams’s life and art. As the documentary moves forward, it will undoubtedly become a touching and emotional homage to a performer whose presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
