The Vivienne

Early Life: A Star Born in Liverpool

In a world where sparkle can be superficial and performance fleeting, The Vivienne is the real deal—fierce, fearless, and fabulously British. A master of transformation, razor-sharp comedy, and powerhouse performance, The Vivienne didn’t just win the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK—she redefined what British drag could look like on the world stage.

From Liverpool’s local scene to global acclaim, The Vivienne has become an icon of authenticity and artistry, proving that drag is more than makeup and wigs—it’s storytelling, it’s rebellion, and, above all, it’s joy.

Born James Lee Williams on April 12, 1992, in Colwyn Bay, Wales, and raised in Liverpool, The Vivienne’s early life was grounded in working-class grit and Northern humor. Liverpool, with its legacy of music, theatre, and cheeky charm, gave James both the spirit and the stage he needed to thrive.

As a child, James showed early signs of creative flair—singing along to Shirley Bassey records, mimicking celebrities, and absorbing every ounce of old-school glamour. But it wasn’t just performance he was drawn to—it was transformation. Drag, when it eventually entered his life, wasn’t a mask. It was a mirror.

Fun Fact: The name “The Vivienne” was inspired by a love for high fashion—specifically British designer Vivienne Westwood—and a desire to sound both glamorous and grand.

Education and Early Discovery of Drag

Though not trained in theatre or performance schools, The Vivienne’s real education came through club culture and stage experience. In his teens, James began experimenting with drag, refining his look and humor in the bustling LGBTQ+ nightlife of Liverpool. This wasn’t the drag of lip-syncs and rhinestones alone—it was about presence, character, and storytelling.

He became a fixture in local bars and clubs, known for fierce celebrity impersonations—his Cher and Donald Trump impressions would later become legendary—and for always commanding the mic, whether with campy banter or polished performances.

Career Journey: From Pub Queen to Drag Royalty

Local Stardom and “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” Victory

In 2015, The Vivienne’s talent was recognized by none other than RuPaul himself, who named her the official UK Drag Ambassador—years before the UK version of Drag Race even launched. It was a sign of things to come.

When RuPaul’s Drag Race UK premiered in 2019, The Vivienne was immediately seen as the one to beat. With her flawless makeup, bold humor, and polished performances, she brought a level of professionalism rarely seen in debut seasons. Her Trump impersonation in the Snatch Game is still hailed as one of the best in Drag Race herstory.

She ultimately won the season, becoming the first ever RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Champion, and with it, a new face of British drag on the global scene.

Expanding Horizons: TV, Tours, and More

Post-win, The Vivienne didn’t slow down. She starred in her own comedy series, The Vivienne Takes on Hollywood, and made appearances on shows like Celebrity Hunted and Celebrity MasterChef. In 2022, she competed on the US-based RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars – UK vs the World, reminding fans of her fierce competitive streak and unflinching poise.

In 2023, she made history again as the first drag queen to compete on ITV’s Dancing on Ice. Skating in full drag—sequins, lashes, and all—The Vivienne brought visibility and grace to mainstream family TV in a way few performers ever have.

Her drag continues to blend old-school glamour with contemporary wit. Whether impersonating Donald Trump with satirical bite or channeling Marilyn Monroe with vulnerability, The Vivienne’s drag is as smart as it is stylish.

Trivia: Despite her polished appearance, The Vivienne has said her favorite part of drag is the transformation process—spending hours in makeup, creating a character from the ground up, and stepping into a fantasy that still feels like home.

Personal Life: Grounded, Loyal, and Fiercely Proud

Behind the glam, The Vivienne—James—is warm, funny, and deeply connected to his roots. He’s been open about his journey with sobriety and the importance of mental health in the drag community. His honesty has helped break down stigma and shown fans that vulnerability is a strength, not a flaw.

He’s also been in a long-term relationship with his partner, David, and they’ve been vocal advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, especially around equality, visibility, and pride in Northern England.

Legacy: A Champion for Drag, Authenticity, and British Queer Culture

The Vivienne’s influence goes beyond crowns and catchphrases. She represents a new era of British drag—one that honors tradition while smashing boundaries. Her presence on mainstream television, her ability to mix camp with commentary, and her dedication to pushing drag into new artistic territory have made her a beloved figure far beyond the queer scene.

Whether performing to sold-out venues or appearing on national TV, The Vivienne brings with her the spirit of a working-class queen who climbed to the top by being unapologetically herself.