The drag community is preparing to celebrate the life of The Vivienne, the acclaimed winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, with the upcoming documentary titled Dear Viv. Following her tragic passing earlier this year at the age of 32, the documentary aims to honor her remarkable career and personal journey. The trailer was released by WOW Presents Plus and has already garnered significant emotional responses from fans and the LGBTQIA+ community.
The documentary, directed by Pete Williams, features heartfelt tributes from friends and family, including Baga Chipz, Michael Marouli, Danny Beard, Tia Kofi, and Cheryl Hole. It also includes contributions from fellow drag queens and alumni of Drag Race, such as Blu Hydrangea, Trinity the Tuck, Monét X Change, and Raja. The emotional trailer showcases never-before-seen footage of The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, alongside touching memories shared by loved ones.
In a poignant moment, The Vivienne’s own voice resonates in the trailer: “It’s really nice to show people that you are a real person under all that glamour.” This sentiment reflects the essence of the documentary, which aims to portray both her glamorous public persona and the personal struggles behind it, including her battle with ketamine addiction.
Celebrating a Legacy
Producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato emphasize that the aim of Dear Viv is to “celebrate her — and not just mourn her.” The film details Williams’ journey from humble beginnings in North Wales and Liverpool to becoming a celebrated figure in drag culture, culminating in her victory in the inaugural season of Drag Race UK in 2019. It also highlights her subsequent appearances on shows like All Stars 7 and her performances in productions such as The Wizard of Oz.
Following her passing, tributes poured in from across the drag community. At DragCon UK, attendees and fellow queens came together to honor The Vivienne, with RuPaul addressing the crowd, urging them to “live your lives, to be free, to have a lot of fun and to spread it around.” A memorial booth was established for fans to leave messages, while a community vigil in Liverpool drew hundreds to remember her legacy.
In addition, Williams’ family has initiated a support group aimed at assisting individuals facing challenges related to drag and substance use. Led by her sister, the group is designed to provide hope and support for those who feel isolated.
Premiere Details
Dear Viv is set to premiere on August 28, 2023, on WOW Presents Plus, offering viewers a chance to reflect on The Vivienne’s life, career, and lasting impact on the drag scene. An exclusive clip is available now on the streaming platform, and the emotional trailer can be viewed online.
As the drag community prepares to honor The Vivienne’s legacy, the documentary not only serves as a tribute but also as a reminder of the personal battles that many face behind the scenes.
