Look back at how The Vivienne contributed to the soap’s first ever Pride episode before tragic death

After the sad news of The Vivienne passing away over the weekend, we’ve taken a look back at the Drag Queen’s cameo in Emmerdale.

The 32 year old Drag Queen The Vivienne sadly died this weekend, with their agent announcing the news via social media.

Making such a huge mark on many fans, some may not know that the much-loved star actually once appeared in Emmerdale. And, helped make history on the show in a celebratory moment.

The sad passing of The Vivienne

James Lee Williams aka The Vivienne sadly died over the weekend, with the star’s agent confirming the tragic news on social media, leaving many people shocked and saddened.

The 32 year old was the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, with many falling in love with the Drag Queen for their hilarious impression of Donald Trump.

After such huge success the tv personality went on to appear on the television skating competition, Dancing on Ice in 2023. They ended up finishing in third place. A huge achievement to be proud of.

@simonjonespr put out a statement yesterday evening (Sunday, January 5) to share the tragic news.

The statement read: “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 by 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’ family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve.”

The Vivienne’s history-making Emmerdale appearance

In 2021, Emmerdale aired their first ever Pride celebrations in the village.

During Pride month, the village church came together with the rest of the community. They then put on the village’s first Pride event. Andrea Tate organised the Pride festival and booked a special guest to attend. This was The Vivienne.

After Ethan’s introductory speech, The Vivienne took to the stage. They then officially kicked off the Emmerdale Pride events.

Before these scenes aired, The Vivienne had also unknowingly contributed to another one of the soap’s historical moments as they ‘played a part’ in Mandy Dingle’s wedding to Paul Ashdale.

Mandy’s leopard print wedding dress took inspiration from one of The Vivienne’s. So, it turns out, The Vivienne made more than one mark on the show that year.

The nation will greatly miss The Vivienne, with their Emmerdale cameo contributing to a huge legacy left by the star.

Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale? All the cast exits, arrivals and returns

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm, with an early release on ITVX at 7am.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside