Inside The Vivienne’s $1.6m home where RuPaul star was found dead – From silk carpets to dressing rooms
The Vivienne lived in a sophisticated UK home
The Vivienne was tragically found dead at 32 earlier this month in their stunning home, which has been described as ‘a beautifully presented, classic Georgian accommodation set over three floors’
Fans are mourning the sudden passing of The Vivienne, who tragically died earlier this month at just 32 years old. Known off-stage as James Lee Williams, The Vivienne had a short but impactful life and career.
This Welsh drag queen was crowned the UK Ambassador for RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2015 and later competed in the first series of the UK show in 2019. Their star continued to rise, and in 2023, they made history as the first drag act to compete on UK reality series Dancing on Ice.
Drawing inspiration from iconic fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, whose clothes they often wore, The Vivienne was synonymous with style and luxury – characteristics mirrored in their stunning home where they were sadly found dead. Reports suggest that The Vivienne was planning to move to a luxurious $486,000 property.
However, at the time of their death, they lived in the six-bedroom Chorlton Manor House near Chester. Greatbritishlife.co.uk describes the Grade II listed Chorlton Manor House as “a beautifully presented, classic Georgian accommodation set over three floors” and a “perfect idyllic escape for country living and entertaining, all within easy reach of Chester city centre.”
The Vivienne’s home had a modern design
The lavish property, adorned with a sophisticated oak-panelled study, separate dressing rooms for him and her, expansive grounds, and numerous opulent reception rooms perfect for entertaining—complete with silk carpets—is nothing short of magnificent. However, it’s believed that The Vivienne was living alone in this luxurious estate, reports the Irish Mirror.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, The Vivienne’s “devastated” father and stepmother reportedly found them dead on Sunday, January 5. A police spokesperson issued a statement at the time: “Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”
Following the tragic discovery, a source told The Sun: “Their devastated dad raised the alarm and believed they had passed away a day or two before being found. James was due to move to a $486,000 house next week, and had a holiday lined up. They were planning a tour and really had everything to live for.”
This sad incident comes after hundreds of fans gathered in Liverpool to pay tribute to The Vivienne, leaving those in grief “completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love”.
The Vivienne’s home had a his and hers bathroom
The vigil occurred yesterday (Sunday, January 12) on the steps of St George’s Hall, with attendees including fellow Drag Race stars and soap opera celebrities.
In a touching tribute, buildings were illuminated in green and balloons soared into the sky to honor The Vivienne, who captivated audiences as the Wicked Witch of the West in last year’s UK tour of The Wizard of Oz. Bobby Musker, a close family friend, shared an emotional message from The Vivienne’s loved ones: “As a family, we are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for James, The Vivienne.”
“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.”
