In a candid and emotional TV interview on ITV’s This Morning, The Vivienne, the beloved winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK season one, opened up about the mental toll she endured after experiencing a harrowing homophobic attack. The incident, which took place on 16th June in a Liverpool branch of McDonald’s, left The Vivienne feeling shaken and vulnerable.
Recounting the incident, The Vivienne described how she was punched by a man in broad daylight while not in drag, minding her own business. Thankfully, Merseyside Police were swift in their response, arresting a suspect in connection with the attack. Despite their support, the aftermath of the assault left a profound impact on her confidence and well-being.
Known for her unwavering confidence from a young age, The Vivienne admitted that the attack took her by surprise. Even though she initially tried to brush it off, she couldn’t ignore the fear that had seeped into her daily life. It was a poignant moment when she found herself hiding around a corner, waiting for a train, feeling a vulnerability she hadn’t experienced before.
However, she praised Merseyside Police for their handling of the case, which somewhat comforted her during this challenging time. Her willingness to discuss the attack openly served as an inspiration for others and shed light on the alarming rise of hate crimes in England and Wales. According to Home Office statistics, hate crimes surged by approximately 26% from the previous year, reaching a record high in 2022.
In another disheartening revelation, The Vivienne shared her experiences while filming Keith Lemon’s series, “Shopping With Keith Lemon.” Within just 30 minutes of shooting, she faced three separate incidents of abuse, highlighting the ongoing discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Keith Lemon himself expressed bewilderment at the hostility, stating his confusion over why someone would be so offended by a performer who aims only to bring joy and entertainment.
The interview served as a powerful reminder of the importance of raising awareness about hate crimes and the need for support for victims. The Vivienne’s bravery in speaking out can be a source of strength for those facing similar challenges. For those in the UK seeking assistance after a hate crime, various avenues are available, including reporting online, contacting 101 over the phone, or visiting a police station. Charities like Crimestoppers and Galop offer support and guidance to victims of abuse and violence within the LGBTQ+ community.
As The Vivienne prepares to perform at Brighton Pride, her resilience in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and accepting future.