The Vivienne’s final TV appearance has been aired weeks after the star’s death, in the ITV2 in the series two premiere of comedy G’Wed.
In a poignant moment for fans, The Vivienne performed in their last role before the Dancing on Ice star’s tragic death, guest-starring as themselves and compering at a gay club where Ted works. “How’s my favourite underpaid glass collector,” The Vivienne jests in the episode. “Our usual compere has got another gig so we need someone for the drag night Thursday.”
Adding encouragement with a sharp tongue, they say: “I think you’ve got something. When you speak, people listen. You grab their attention. So it’s time to stop living in the shadows and step into the lights of my stage. Now, don’t you dare be funnier than me. Come on lad, what’s the worst that can happen? You bomb so hard, you become a shell of a man so traumatised you never leave the house? Because I tell you what, if you do bomb, I’m never speaking to you again.”
During the episode’s drag night, The Vivienne couldn’t resist one more quip: “Welcome to Boss Little Queers Ya Know. Don’t worry lads, if I can transform this face, there’s hope for you too. We have a new compere for you this evening. It’s his first nice so please be nice,” prompting the crowd, “Give it up for the gorgeous Ted Price.”
The episode concluded with a touching tribute to The Vivienne, with the screen displaying: “In memory of The Vivienne, a trailblazing icon whose kindness, wit and artistry enriched the world of drag. The Vivienne had a profoundly uplifting, joyous and inspirational effect on the G’wed team. They will always be in our hearts and forever part of the G’wed family.”
The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, died in January at the age of 32. Their close friend and publicist Simon Jones confirmed the news in a statement: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend,” he wrote.
(Image: ITV)
“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.”
View news Source: https://www.ok.co.uk/tv/itv-pay-tribute-trailblazing-icon-34637213
