Chanel WilliamsThe family of The Vivienne has launched a support group for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction to honour the memory of the drag performer.
The first-ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, James Lee Williams, died in January at the age of 32, following a cardiac arrest caused by the effects of taking ketamine.
Williams had privately struggled with addiction to ketamine and had recently relapsed after years of sobriety.
Led by their sister Chanel Williams and their family, the House of Vivienne sessions will take place every Tuesday at Ty Enfys coffee shop in Colwyn Bay, Conwy county, and aim to spark awareness about the use of ketamine.
“This is for anyone who feels alone,” Chanel said, adding: “James would want you to know you matter, your life matters and there is help. There is always hope.”
Williams, who went by they/them and he/him pronouns, spoke about their addiction struggles on an episode of Drag Race and wanted to use their platform to highlight its dangers and the hope of recovery.
Known as one of the biggest breakout stars of British drag, the performer’s death devastated the LGBTQ+ community
“Ketamine is an extremely dangerous drug that is becoming more and more prevalent in the UK,” said Chanel.
“There’s still a stigma around ketamine use and that’s costing lives. We want to break that stigma and create a place where people feel safe to say I need help.”
Chanel WilliamsSmall amounts of ketamine – a Class B drug – can give a sense of euphoria and excitement while large amounts can lead to a state known as the “K-hole,” where users feel detached from reality.
The number of under-16s reporting a problem with the drug has nearly doubled over the past two years.
What is ketamine?
- Often referred to as ket, Special K or just K, it is a powerful horse tranquilliser and anaesthetic. It is a licensed drug and can be prescribed medically
- It can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage to the bladder when misused
- The penalty for possession is up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine or both
Chanel WilliamsWorking in partnership with the Sanctuary Trust, Adferiad and substance abuse charities, the House of The Vivienne is described as a “safe, inclusive space”.
Williams grew up in Colwyn Bay before moving to Liverpool as a teenager where their love of Vivienne Westwood clothing inspired their drag name.
The Vivienne starred in musical theatre and TV productions and also competed on an all-winners season of the RuPaul franchise in the US in 2022.
In January 2023, they became the first drag queen to appear on Dancing on Ice and was partnered with American skater Colin Grafton, finishing third.
Williams had “a really long period of sobriety” before relapsing, Chanel said, but she believes both the stigma around addiction and her brother’s successful career, meant they did not seek professional help.
“James brought sparkle and joy wherever they went,” said Chanel.
“But they also knew the darkness of addiction. That’s why House of The Vivienne isn’t just about telling people to stop – it’s about meeting them where they are, without judgement, and showing them there’s a way forward.”
Details of help and support with addiction are available in the UK at BBC Action Line
