Some Dancing on Ice viewers were left less than impressed as the show issued a tribute to The Vivienne a week after her tragic death was announced, calling it ‘appalling’. After an opening number introducing all of the celebrities to the ice for the first time, hosts Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern broke away from the action to pay tribute to Drag Race UK star The Vivienne, who made it to the finals of the show in 2023 with professional skater Colin Grafton.
Holly told the audience: “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.”
Read more The Vivienne’s tragic message about ‘reaching new heights’ in 2025 days before death
“Absolutely,” Stephen agreed. Viewers however were not impressed. While some complained the short tribute wasn’t enough to mark the star’s untimely death at the age of 32, others took issue with the song choice for the opening number – Alive and Kicking by Simple Minds.
Viewers took to X to complain, with one writing: “#DancingOnIce #thevivienne THATS IT!? … Not even a black a white image? Appalling.”
“Is that it for a tribute to The Vivienne a few words why can’t we at least see some dances etc #DancingOnIce,” another fan echoed.
A third commented: “I assume this Alive and kicking dance isn’t the tribute to the viv? #DancingOnIce,” and another said: “Bit insensitive choice of song don’t you think? #DancingOnIce.”
Drag Race icon The Vivienne, whose real name was James Lee Williams, sadly passed away at the age of 32, with their death being confirmed last Sunday night. Originally from North Wales and relocating to Liverpool at 16, The Vivienne was renowned for delighting audiences, whether through impersonations of Donald Trump or Margaret Thatcher, or performing as the Wicked Witch of the West in a stage production of The Wizard of Oz.
Simon Jones, a close friend and PR for The Vivienne, confirmed the tragic news on social media with a heartfelt statement: “It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams – The Vivienne, has passed this weekend.
“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.”,