Liverpool will install a permanent life-size statue of The Vivienne at the junction of Victoria Street and Stanley Street, according to an exclusive report from Attitude. The monument will mark the entrance to the city’s officially recognized LGBTQ+ district, serving as a tribute to the inaugural RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner who died in January 2025.
Funding the Tribute to The Vivienne in Liverpool’s Pride Quarter
The project is led by House of The Vivienne CIC, established by the family of James Lee Williams, alongside the LGBTQ+ platform Proudly Said. To commission and install the statue, the campaign aims to raise approximately £100,000 through community fundraising.
The Attitude Magazine Foundation has committed £5,000 to the cause. This includes an initial £2,500 donation to launch the public drive and a further £2,500 pledge to be triggered as the campaign nears its final target. Additional initial funding was provided by the Liverpool Business Improvement District.
Did you know? In 2011, Liverpool became the first UK city to formally recognize its gay quarter, later introducing rainbow street signs in the Stanley Street area.
The Statue as a ‘Guardian Angel’ for the LGBTQ+ Community
Unlike traditional monuments meant for distant viewing, organizers intend for the statue to be a welcoming focal point where people can sit and gather. John Hyland of Proudly Said described the monument as a statement that the Pride Quarter deserves continued investment and attention.
Chanel Williams, sister of James and a director of House of The Vivienne CIC, stated that the city accepted James and helped him become The Vivienne. She noted that a permanent statue ensures the community does not forget that history and reminds those struggling that they are not alone.
Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool Business Improvement District, said the organization is proud to support the tribute to someone who helped define the city’s culture.
From Local Drag Scene to National Fame
James Lee Williams moved from North Wales to Liverpool at 16. Before achieving national television success, he established himself in the local scene at venues such as GBar, Garlands, and Superstar Boudoir.
The Vivienne’s career reached a peak after winning the inaugural series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019. He later appeared on RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars and became the first drag performer to reach the final of Dancing on Ice.
Addressing Addiction through House of The Vivienne CIC
The statue project is tied to a broader mission to combat the stigma of addiction. James died in January 2025 following a private struggle with ketamine addiction. His family established House of The Vivienne CIC to help people access support without fear of judgment.
This effort toward public health was recognized in 2025 when Chanel Williams accepted the Inspiration Award at the Attitude Awards on behalf of the family, following The Vivienne’s own receipt of the same award in 2022.
Community Insight: The statue is designed to honor both the public persona of the dazzling performer and the private identity of James as a brother, son, uncle, and friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will The Vivienne statue be located?
It will be positioned at the junction of Victoria Street and Stanley Street, overlooking Liverpool’s Pride Quarter.
How much is being raised for the statue?
The fundraising goal is approximately £100,000 to cover the commission and installation.
Who is leading the project?
The project is led by House of The Vivienne CIC and the platform Proudly Said.
How do you feel about the use of public art to commemorate LGBTQ+ icons?
Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on cultural landmarks.