ITV Dancing On Ice has remembered RuPaul’s Drag Race star The Vivienne’s “unique vitality and fearless spirit” when they competed on the ice skating show in 2023.
James Lee Williams made history when they became the first drag act to reach the show’s finale, placing third with their professional skating partner Colin Grafton.
A post to the show’s official Instagram said: “Everyone at Dancing on Ice is so deeply saddened by the passing of James Lee Williams, best known to our audiences as The Vivienne.
“Making TV history through their groundbreaking and spellbinding skating partnership with Colin Grafton, James’ unique vitality and fearless spirit entranced audiences week after week, as they became the first drag act to reach the final of the show. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their family and friends.”
Grafton paid tribute to the late TV star, saying: “They truly brought light into every room they entered and gave so many people hope where there was none.”
James Lee Williams, known as The Vivienne, died aged 32 over the weekend. They came third on the 2023 edition of Dancing On Ice partnered with Grafton.
In a post on Instagram, American skater Grafton said: “I can’t believe I’m writing these words. It is with an extraordinarily heavy heart that I say goodbye to my beautiful friend and skating partner, The Vivienne. Viv was and is a true icon in every sense of the word, and inspired thousands of people far and wide with everything they did and accomplished.
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“They truly brought light into every room they entered, and gave so many people hope where there was none. I am truly heartbroken. What we were able to accomplish together on Dancing On Ice was truly remarkable and I know your bravery and our partnership inspired many people.
“I will always be so proud of what we accomplished. Viv, your spirit, strength, and kindness will always stay with me and with everyone you touched. I will forever cherish our time together on and off the ice, you will forever be my Mary Poppins.
“I promise to carry your memory with me in everything I do. You taught me so much about so many things, and I am eternally grateful. Your legacy lives on.”
Former Love Island star Ekin-Su, who also starred in the series alongside The Vivienne, also took so Instagram to share a poignant tribute to her “incredible” friend.
She wrote: “What an incredible human being you were, you brought so much light and joy to every moment. You made my DOI journey unforgettable and filled it with laughter, support and endless fun.
“I’ll always cherish the memories we created together. Thank you for being you,” alongside a photo of The Vivienne during the show and a red heart emoji.
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