Drag Queen James Lee Williams – known as “The Vivienne” – died after taking ketamine, their family said.
Williams, which is the first series of Rupaul’s drag race uk in 2019 under their drag name, was Death found at the age of 32 at their home in Cheshire on January 5.
In a statement shared in an Instagram story today, Williams manager Simon Jones said the ‘family and I feel it is important to say how James died tragically’.
Mr. Jones continued: “We hope that by releasing this information, we can make us aware of the dangers of continuing use of ketamine and what it can do to your body.
“The use of ketamine is increasing, especially among young people, and I do not think the full dangers of the drug are discussed.”
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Mr. Jones added that he and the family worked with mental health and addicted service to a campaign to raise “important awareness and provide information on how to get help if you are struggling with the use of ketamine”.
Williams is reportedly died after causing a cardiac arrest by ketamine – a general anesthetic that is also used as a recreational medicine,
Donna Chaves, of Adferiad, said: ‘We are incredibly grateful to James’s family that they have chosen to support and work with us on this campaign.
“Their courage in the part of James’s story will help increase an important awareness of the devastating use of impact. We see a worrying increase in the number of people using ketamine, often unaware of the serious risks it poses for their physical and mental health.
“Addiction can affect someone, and too many people suffer in silence due to stigma and a lack of understanding.
“By opening conversations and challenging misconceptions, we can help prevent further tragedies and support those in need to find hope and recovery.”
An investigation into the death of Williams has been opened and adjourned at Cheshire Coroner’s Court in Warrington last month.
The TV personality, who grew up in Colwyn Bay, North Wales before moving to Liverpool, was third in the 2023 issue of Dancing on Ice.
The star acted as the Wicked Witch of the West in a British and Ireland tour through the Wizard of Oz Music Music and Released the role in the West End in the Gillian Lynne theater last year.
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The vivienne during the premiere of the film ‘Wicked’ in November 2024. Pic: AP
They were back on stage this month as the childcatcher in a tour by Chitty Chitty Bang, a role they first played last year.
Their funeral in Bodelwydan, Denbighshire, North Wales, was attended by Rupaul’s Drag Race UK participants Tia Kofi and Baga Chipz, along with steps singer Ian “H” Watkins, TV personality Kim Woodburn and Coronation Street actress Clairey.
The government is seeking expert advice after the illegal use of ketamine has risen to record levels.
In the year ended March 2023, an estimated 299,000 people between 16 and 59 years reported that the substance, which was controlled as Class B, was reported according to the home office office.
According to the UK National Anti-Drug Advisory Service Frank reduces ketamine sensations in the body that can make users dream-like and detached, chilled, relaxed and happy, but also confused and nauseous.
A full investigation into the death of the Vivienne was listed on June 30.
