The Vivienne’s family has praised a beautiful tribute to the star in Liverpool, as fans slammed Dancing On Ice.
The Mirror revealed last week that Dancing On Ice was planning a special tribute to the Drag Race UK winner following their death at the age of 32. The Vivienne made it all the way to the final in the 2023 series.
A source said at the time: “The Dancing on Ice team has been rocked by the sad news. The Vivienne was a much loved contestant during their time on the show and broke ground by being the first drag artist to compete.
“There will be a tribute on Sundays launch, everyone’s in agreement that it’s only right to pay respects. It’s a tragic loss. Everyone working close to the show’s thoughts go out to the Vivienne’s family and friends.”
Buildings were lit up in green in tribute to The Vivienne
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Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
However, when the tribute aired last night, fans of The Vivienne were left disappointed. After the cast was introduced, host Holly Willoughby said: “Before we move on, like us, many of you have been saddened by the tragedy of The Vivienne’s passing last weekend. Now, they were a huge part of the show, making it all the way to the final in 2023 and they’ll be very sorely missed. Our thoughts are with The Vivienne’s loved ones at this sad time. So sad.”
“Absolutely,” Stephen added, before he changed trajectory and shared: “Ok, tonight’s we’ll see our first six couples take to the ice – the other six couples will perform next week – so lets crack on with the very first celebrity.”
Holly and Stephen paused the show for a tribute to The Vivienne
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ITV)
On the other side of the UK, in Liverpool, hundreds of fans gathered to pay tribute to The Vivienne. A vigil was held on the steps of St George’s Hall, with fellow Drag Race stars and soap stars in attendance.
Buildings were lit up in green to pay tribute to the star, who played the Wicked Witch of the West in UK touring production of The Wizard of Oz last year, whilst balloons were released to remember the star.
Family friend, Bobby Musker, read out a statement from the family: “As a family we are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for James, The Vivienne. From an early age it was evident they were destined for the stage… they were determined to pave his own way in this world. The road was not easy but the dream never, ever changed and James would always tell us that they would make it happen and they did. We will miss you for an eternity and for an eternity we will all love you.”
The Vivienne and Colin Grafton came third on Dancing on Ice in 2023
On the Sunday evening, viewers were left disappointed by the tribute to The Vivienne. One wrote: “I thought that they might of said/done a little more when it came too paying homage too The Vivienne, showing previous clips and, or a dance routine in memory of perhaps,” whilst another added: “Is that it for a tribute to The Vivienne a few words why can’t we at least see some dances etc.”
Another branded the tribute appalling, writing: “THATS IT!? … Not even a black a white image? Appalling.”
During their time on the show, The Vivienne was partnered with Colin Grafton, who paid tribute to his “beautiful friend”.
Balloons were released to remember The Vivienne
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Copyright remains with handout provider)
The Vivienne died earlier this year at the age of 32
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Getty Images)
He shared on Instagram: “I can’t believe I’m writing these words. It is with an extraordinarily heavy heart that I say goodbye to my beautiful friend and skating partner, The Vivienne. Viv was and is a true icon in every sense of the word, and inspired thousands of people far and wide with everything they did and accomplished. They truly brought light into every room they entered, and gave so many people hope where there was none. I am truly heartbroken. What we were able to accomplish together on Dancing On Ice was truly remarkable and I know your bravery and our partnership inspired many people.
“I will always be so proud of what we accomplished. Viv, your spirit, strength, and kindness will always stay with me and with everyone you touched. I will forever cherish our time together on and off the ice , you will forever be my Mary Poppins. I promise to carry your memory with me in everything I do. You taught me so much about so many things, and I am eternally grateful.”
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