Drag Race fans get ready to grab your tissues. World of Wonder the production company behind RuPaul's Drag Race is creating a documentary to honor the life and work of the incredible The Vivienne. This queen who won the first season of Drag Race UK and charmed everyone is getting a special tribute and it sounds absolutely beautiful.
'Dear Viv' Documentary Announced: A Look at The Vivienne's Journey and Lasting Impact
The documentary is called Dear Viv and it is being made with the full support of The Vivienne's family. Executive producers Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey from RuPaul's Drag Race said they want to "celebrate The Vivienne’s extraordinary life and work so everyone can experience her incredible talent sass and enormous heart." It is going to be a real celebration of her life and legacy.
Dear Viv will take us on a journey from The Vivienne's beginnings in North Wales to her rise in the UK drag scene and her ultimate Drag Race UK victory. The documentary will feature archive footage intimate interviews with people who loved her and personal letters from fans. Expect to see familiar faces like fellow Drag Race UK queens Baga Chipz Michael Marouli and Danny Beard sharing their memories and tributes.
Sadly James Lee Williams who performed as The Vivienne passed away in January at just 32 years old. While it was a shock to everyone this documentary is a way to remember her incredible spirit and talent. Barbato and Bailey said "Although her stay here on Earth was far too brief it is with tremendous admiration and affection that we share her legacy in Dear Viv."
From Drag Race UK Winner to West End Star: Remembering The Vivienne's Sparkling Career
The Vivienne's journey was truly something special. She wasn't just the first winner of RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2019 she became a true icon. Her Snatch Game impression of Donald Trump is still talked about as legendary. She also represented the UK on the all-winners season of Drag Race All Stars showing she could compete with the best of the best.
Beyond Drag Race The Vivienne’s talent took her to amazing places. She played the Wicked Witch of the West in a touring production of The Wizard of Oz in 2024 proving her star power went beyond the drag world and onto the stage. She even appeared on ITV's Dancing On Ice in 2023 showcasing her versatility and willingness to try new things. Her career was packed with amazing moments.
Tributes from RuPaul Michelle Visage and Fellow Queens: The Vivienne Remembered with Love
The documentary will include tributes from fans and fellow queens but many have already shared heartfelt messages about The Vivienne since her passing. RuPaul himself said "With a broken heart I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Vivienne" calling her "an incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being."
Drag Race judge Michelle Visage wrote about her close bond with The Vivienne saying "My darling @thevivienne_ we go back to when I started coming over here to the UK. You were always there always laughing always giving always on point. Your laughter your wit your talent your drag. I loved all of it but I loved your friendship most of all."
Baga Chipz another Drag Race UK Season 1 star shared a touching tribute saying "You will always be the Velma to my Louise and I’ll always talk to you before I go onstage for every single show I do because let’s face it you were a bloody powerhouse when you hit that stage." These messages really show how much The Vivienne was loved and respected.
How to Watch 'Dear Viv': Streaming Details and Release on WOW Presents Plus
If you want to celebrate The Vivienne's life yourself Dear Viv will be available to watch later in 2025 on WOW Presents Plus. This is World of Wonder's streaming service and the go-to place for all things Drag Race. While there isn't an exact release date yet keep an eye on WOW Presents Plus for updates.
Dear Viv is shaping up to be a moving and important documentary. It is a chance for fans new and old to remember The Vivienne her incredible talent and the joy she brought to so many. Get ready to celebrate the unforgettable Vivienne's legacy.
Key Aspects of The Vivienne's Life and Career to be Celebrated in 'Dear Viv':
- Drag Race UK Season 1 Winner: Relive her iconic win and journey on the show.
- Snatch Game Legend: Remembered for her unforgettable Donald Trump impression.
- RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Returnee: Competed in the all-winners season.
- West End Star: Played the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz.
- UK Drag Ambassador: Named the first ever for RuPaul's Drag Race in 2015.
- Celebrated Wit and Sass: Known for her quick humor and unforgettable personality.
- Lasting Impact on the Drag Community: Honoring her influence beyond her own career.