Drag queen Erika Klash honors The Vivienne’s legacy with touching statement after tragic death
Erika Klash says she only met The Vivienne once
Drag queens across the world are in mourning following the loss of a prominent figure in the community — The Vivienne. Erika Klash spoke to their impact.
The Vivienne left a lasting legacy on drag culture, leaving many devastated after their death.
Across the drag and LGBT community, mourning ensued after the loss of the RuPaul‘s Drag Race legend. Drag queen Erika Klash remembered The Vivienne’s legacy, telling The Mirror exclusively: “I met The Vivienne in 2020 in Manchester. We were both getting back to work after months of lockdown in the height of the pandemic. Even in that brief interaction she was a light. She and her art will be missed but her legacy will always be remembered.”
The Vivienne’s publicist announced with profound sorrow: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend. James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
In an emotional statement, Simon, close friend and manager of The Vivienne, paid homage by stating: “These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other.
The Vivienne was found dead earlier this month
“I’m so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It’s tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon.”
The Vivienne’s last public appearance was just a week prior to their unexpected death, where they performed in the West End production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as The Childcatcher in Blackpool. In the days leading up to their passing, the star also used their social media platform to urge fans to support a charitable cause.
