WOW Presents Plus is set to premiere Dear Viv on August 28, a heartfelt documentary that pays tribute to the late drag superstar The Vivienne. The feature-length film will debut globally on the streaming platform the same day it airs in the U.K. on BBC Three and iPlayer.
The documentary offers a tender yet triumphant portrait of James Lee Williams, known around the world as The Vivienne. With support from The Vivienne’s family, friends, and collaborators, Dear Viv traces the entertainer’s rise from a small town in North Wales to international fame.
A Career That Sparkled with Firsts
Through a mix of intimate interviews and archival footage, Dear Viv revisits the milestones that made The Vivienne a force in the drag world. From winning the first-ever season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK to making history as the first drag artist to compete on Dancing on Ice, The Vivienne continuously broke barriers.
The documentary also highlights her stint as the Wicked Witch of the West in the 2024 U.K. tour of The Wizard of Oz, and her return to the Drag Race universe as part of the first all-winners season of All Stars.
Remembering With Love, Not Loss
“Although she left us far too soon, her life was defined by her breathtaking talent, scene-stealing charisma, and infinite kindness,” said World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, who produced the film. “We wanted to celebrate The Vivienne, not just mourn her. We hope the documentary honors her voice and spirit.”
Behind the scenes, the project was helmed by director Pete Williams in his feature debut, with Jeffrey McHale serving as editor. The production joins World of Wonder’s acclaimed documentary slate, which includes The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Out of Iraq, and Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures.
Intimate Voices, Unseen Moments
The Vivienne’s family, mother Cassie, father Lee, and sister Chanel, share heartfelt memories, shedding light on her early years and personal journey. Friends and fellow queens like Baga Chipz, Blu Hydrangea, Cheryl Hole, Crystal, Tia Kofi, Trinity the Tuck, and Monet X Change also appear, offering stories that are equal parts touching and joyful.
These interviews are paired with never-before-seen footage, including home movies and Drag Race outtakes, offering fans a rare glimpse into the private world of a very public figure.
A Call for Awareness
In addition to celebrating her artistry, Dear Viv addresses The Vivienne’s battle with addiction. The film doesn’t shy away from the tragic reality that ketamine use led to her untimely death. Her sister Chanel speaks candidly about the dangers of the drug and calls for better education and support systems for those struggling.
A Fitting Tribute
Dear Viv aims to be more than just a look back, it’s a love letter, filled with laughter, legacy, and life. It’s a celebration of The Vivienne’s unique brilliance and the enduring mark she left on queer culture.
The film will be available to stream on WOW Presents Plus beginning August 28, and will be part of the platform’s expansive library of drag-focused content, including the entire international Drag Race franchise.
