Emmerdale actress reveals she was with The Vivienne just days ago as she shares shock over death
EMMERDALE star Hayley Tamaddon has revealed she was with The Vivienne just days before their shock death.
The beloved entertainer, who was best known for finishing third on Dancing On Ice in 2023 and for being the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, sadly passed away at the age of 32.
Soap star Hayley, 47, took to Instagram with a touching tribute to her late friend The Vivienne , real name James Lee Williams.
Hayley, who played Delilah Dingle on the ITV soap from 2005 to 2007, said she was with the star just days ago and were making plans.
The actress shared an emotional statement, writing: “I cannot believe what I’ve just read. I am beyond shocked and saddened…
“I was only with James a couple of days ago, making plans for dinner and seeing friends.”
Hayley branded the popular TV personality “the kindest soul”.
“My heart goes out to his family and friends,” she added.
“A life taken far too soon. Rest easy Viv.
“You were the kindest soul.”
Yesterday evening, the drag superstar’s PR Simon Jones revealed that the reality favourite had passed away.
Simon shared: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person.
“Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle.
“They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career.
“We will not be releasing any further details.
“We please ask that James’s family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”
The performer from North Wales was best known for finishing third on Dancing On Ice in 2023 and for being the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK on BBC Three in 2019.
No cause of death has been revealed.
The showbiz world has reacted to the shock passing.
Showbiz friends react
Pussycat Dolls star Ashley Roberts said: “Omg! I can’t believe this. This is heartbreaking news.”
Sheridan Smith added: “Oh my god! No! So sorry Simon.”
Michelle Visage said: “I don’t have the words. Utterly heartbroken.”
Last year, the star toured the country as the Wicked Witch of the West in a hit production of The Wizard of Oz.
The Vivienne had their own BBC Three series The Vivienne Takes on Hollywood and also took part in Celebrity Hunted and The Great British Sewing Bee.
They also made a guest appearance in ITV’s Emmerdale in 2021.