In a heart-wrenching revelation, Chanel Williams, the sister of renowned drag performer James Lee Williams—better known as The Vivienne—has shared the sorrowful story of her brother’s struggle with ketamine addiction. In an interview with BBC Newsnight, Chanel disclosed that her family was completely unaware of James’s battle with this substance until it became a focal point on the reality competition show Drag Race UK, which aired in 2019. This shocking admission highlights the stigma that surrounds addiction and the lengths to which individuals may go to conceal their struggles from their loved ones.
The Vivienne’s journey was marred by challenges, including a life-threatening hospitalization due to his addiction. Despite achieving mainstream success, James felt compelled to maintain a facade of stability, intending to shield his family from the repercussions of his addiction. Tragically, he passed away in January 2025, with the cause of death identified as cardiac arrest from ketamine consumption. This heartbreaking loss serves as a stark reminder of the hidden battles many face, often in silence.
While relaying the events surrounding her brother’s passing, Chanel expressed her thoughts on their family’s lack of awareness about his condition. She noted that James had previously achieved a period of sobriety, a fact the family learned only after his death. “Had I asked the questions or just looked for the signs, would the outcome be different?” she muses, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those who have lost loved ones to addiction.
As The Vivienne, James garnered attention for his candid discussions about drug abuse and his path to sobriety. Chanel hopes to continue this dialogue in her brother’s memory, advocating for more open conversations about substance abuse to diminish the stigma that often prevents those in need from seeking help. “He’d spoken openly about the battles he’d had with addiction and he’d come through the other side,” she reflects, indicating the complexity of addiction and the societal pressures that can make it difficult to admit when one is struggling again.
The issue of increasing ketamine usage among young people is of particular concern to Chanel. She asserts that the drug’s affordability and accessibility contribute significantly to its popularity. The family has commenced a campaign to raise awareness and combat the stigma attached to substance misuse, partnering with the charity Adferiad. They aim to inform the public about the dangers of ketamine and the importance of seeking support.
Their efforts include advocating for the reclassification of ketamine from a Class B to a Class A drug, aligning it with substances like heroin and cocaine. This reclassification could help shift perceptions and highlight the serious risks associated with its use. Chanel believes that proper education and comprehensive strategies involving law enforcement and health services are crucial in addressing drug use and preventing fatalities.
James’s untimely death has prompted significant discussions about the need for proactive measures regarding substance abuse. The UK government is currently consulting experts on the potential reclassification of ketamine, emphasizing a national awareness campaign to combat drug-related issues. A spokesperson from the Home Office conveyed sympathies to James’s family and friends while reinforcing the commitment to tackling drug misuse.
Ultimately, Chanel’s drive to transform her family’s tragedy into a legacy of knowledge and advocacy is profound. She hopes that by sharing James’s story, they can foster change and help others avoid the heartache they have endured. “If I can help one family to not feel what we are feeling, then it’s all worth it,” she asserts, embodying the resilience and hope that often emerge from profound loss.
Chanel’s views can be seen in a broader context of ongoing conversations about addiction, mental health, and the social structures that inform them. By amplifying her brother’s experience, she aims to engage more individuals in discussions about the realities of drug use and the importance of support systems in promoting recovery and safeguarding lives.