The Vivienne honoured with posthumous award
The Metro Pride Awards celebrated the life and legacy of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne, posthumously honouring the late drag icon with an Icon Award. The emotional ceremony, held in London, saw family, friends, and fellow performers come together to pay tribute to James Lee Williams, who passed away in January at just 32 years old.
The Vivienne, a trailblazer in the UK drag scene, won the inaugural season of Drag Race UK and went on to star in numerous television shows, including Dancing on Ice, where they finished third in 2023. Their influence on British drag culture and LGBTQ+ representation remains unparalleled, making this honour a fitting tribute.
A Legacy Remembered
TV and radio presenter Rylan Clark, who hosted the event, expressed his grief and admiration for The Vivienne. “She’s been taken way too soon,” he told reporters on the red carpet. “Viv was such a talented performer, and it’s absolutely shocking that they’re not with us anymore.”
Drag artist Cheryl Hole delivered a heartfelt performance in honour of her late friend, emphasizing The Vivienne’s impact on UK drag. “She was the pioneer, the trailblazer of UK drag,” Cheryl said. “I truly am so honoured that we get to be here and keep her legacy alive and her spirit on fire.”
Liverpool Pays Tribute
Last month, fans and loved ones gathered in The Vivienne’s hometown of Liverpool for a moving vigil at St George’s Hall. The iconic venue was illuminated in green, a touching nod to The Vivienne’s role as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz musical.
The Dancing on Ice team also honoured the late performer during the launch of its latest season in January, recognizing The Vivienne’s groundbreaking participation as the first drag queen to compete on the show.
The Vivienne’s Iconic Name
Before gaining fame on Drag Race UK, The Vivienne explained the origin of their drag name, revealing a deep admiration for fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. “I love Vivienne Westwood, and when I moved to Liverpool, everyone used to call me Vivienne as I was head to toe in Westwood,” they shared in a 2019 interview.
Other Award Recipients
The Metro Pride Awards also recognized several other influential figures in entertainment and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
- Sir Stephen Fry received the Lifetime Achievement Award
- Pop star Anastacia was honoured with the Metro Global Recognition Award
- Singer Will Young won Music Hero of the Year
- I’m A Celebrity star GK Barry took home the Rising Star Award
- Former Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful received the Celebrity of the Year Award
- TV personality Robert Rinder was named Broadcaster of the Year
The Vivienne’s posthumous award serves as a powerful reminder of their legacy, ensuring their influence on UK drag and LGBTQ+ culture lives on.
