Mike Smith
The documentary Dear Viv is available in the UK on BBC Three and for free on BBC iPlayer from 28 August at 9 PM BST, and streams on WOW Presents Plus worldwide outside the UK
How to watch Dear Viv from anywhere on BBC iPlayer
To watch Dear Viv on BBC iPlayer from anywhere, use a trusted VPN service. After installing the VPN, connect to a UK server and log in to your BBC iPlayer account. You’ll then be able to stream the documentary seamlessly.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK-based server.
- Open BBC iPlayer website or launch its app, then login or sign up for a new account.
During registration, you’ll need to enter a UK postal code — you can use an online UK postcode generator if needed. - Watch the Vivienne documentary “Dear Viv” online!
Dear Viv (2025 Documentary) Synopsis
Dear Viv is a deeply personal documentary produced by World of Wonder (creators of RuPaul’s Drag Race) in collaboration with the BBC, celebrating the life and legacy of James Lee Williams, best known as The Vivienne. The film traces Viv’s journey from their North Wales childhood to becoming the first winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK in 2019, later starring in All Stars 7, Dancing on Ice (2023), and on stage as the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz (2024).
Through exclusive archive footage, never-before-seen clips, family interviews, and tributes from drag contemporaries, the documentary explores Viv’s artistry, wit, and struggles, including their candid openness about addiction. With touching commentary from family, close friends, and fellow performers, Dear Viv honors her short but impactful life as one of the most celebrated British drag artists of all time.
When and What Time Does Dear Viv Start?
Dear Viv premieres on Thursday, 28 August 2025 at 9:00 PM (BST) on BBC Three. It will also be available to stream the same day for free on BBC iPlayer. For global audiences, the film launches simultaneously on WOW Presents Plus, the official streaming service for Drag Race content.
Where to Watch Dear Viv in the United States
You can watch Dear Viv in the US on WOW Presents Plus. With a subscription, the documentary is available to stream in HD across smart TVs, web browsers, and mobile devices. WOW Presents Plus also includes other Drag Race spin-offs and documentaries for US subscribers.
Where to Watch Dear Viv in Canada
In Canada, Dear Viv is streaming on WOW Presents Plus. The platform provides on-demand access to the documentary with the option to download episodes for offline viewing. A single subscription unlocks the full library, including Dear Viv and additional WOW Originals.
Where to Watch Dear Viv in the United Kingdom
In the UK, Dear Viv airs on BBC Three and is also available for free on BBC iPlayer starting 28 August at 9 PM BST. BBC iPlayer lets viewers watch live or catch up anytime on phones, tablets, or smart TVs. A free BBC account and valid TV license are required.
Where to Watch Dear Viv in Australia
Australian viewers can watch Dear Viv on WOW Presents Plus. The documentary is available at the same time as the UK broadcast. With a subscription, Australians can stream the film on all supported devices, including the dedicated WOW app.
Dear Viv Cast (Featured Appearances)
- The Vivienne (James Lee Williams) – Self, archive footage
- Baga Chipz – Self
- Michael Marouli – Self
- Danny Beard – Self
- Blu Hydrangea – Self
- Trinity the Tuck – Self
- Cheryl Hole – Self
- Tia Kofi – Self
- Monét X Change – Self
- Family and Friends – including Viv’s parents and sister Chanel Williams
Can You Watch Dear Viv Documentary Online for Free?
You can watch Dear Viv for free in the UK on BBC iPlayer with a valid TV license. Outside the UK, the first episode is available free on WOW Presents Plus, but full access to the documentary requires a subscription.
Is Dear Viv Suitable for All Ages?
Dear Viv is expected to carry a TV-14 / 14+ guidance rating, due to sensitive themes such as addiction and The Vivienne’s death. While it contains celebratory content and performances, parents should be aware of its emotional and mature subject matter.
Where Can I Download Dear Viv Full Documentary?
You can download Dear Viv in the UK using the BBC iPlayer app, which allows offline viewing once episodes are added to your library. Internationally, the documentary can be downloaded through the WOW Presents Plus app with an active subscription.
What Happened to Vivienne?
James Lee Williams (The Vivienne) tragically passed away in January 2025 at age 32. An inquest confirmed death was caused by cardiac arrest following ketamine use. Viv had spoken openly about addiction struggles, and the documentary also addresses this candidly while honoring her artistry, warmth, and resilience.
Popular LGBTQ+ TV Shows to Watch After Dear Viv
- RuPaul’s Drag Race UK – The competition that launched The Vivienne’s career, featuring queens battling for the title of UK’s next drag superstar.
- RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars – Fan-favorite queens from across the franchise return to compete for a spot in the Drag Race Hall of Fame.
- Pose – A groundbreaking drama set in New York’s ballroom culture of the 1980s and 1990s, exploring identity, family, and resilience.
- It’s a Sin – A powerful miniseries following a group of friends during the HIV/AIDS crisis in 1980s London.
- Heartstopper – A heartfelt coming-of-age drama about love, friendship, and acceptance among queer teens.
- Drag Race Down Under – The Australasian edition of Drag Race, showcasing drag talent from Australia and New Zealand.
- Queer Eye – The Emmy-winning reboot where the Fab Five bring lifestyle makeovers, empathy, and humor to everyday people’s lives.
- Sex Education – A British comedy-drama exploring relationships, sexuality, and identity with a diverse LGBTQ+ cast.
- Our Flag Means Death – A queer-positive pirate comedy that blends romance, adventure, and humor.
- Transparent – A family drama centered on a parent’s late-life transition and the impact on their children.
FAQs
1. Who directed Dear Viv?
The documentary is directed by Pete Williams and produced by World of Wonder, with executive producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.
2. How long is Dear Viv?
The documentary runs for 60 minutes (1 x 60).
3. Will Dear Viv be available on Netflix?
No. Dear Viv is exclusive to BBC iPlayer (UK) and WOW Presents Plus (international).
4. Can I watch Dear Viv with subtitles?
Yes. Both BBC iPlayer and WOW Presents Plus provide subtitles in English, with accessibility features available on most devices.
5. Why is Dear Viv important?
The documentary not only celebrates Viv’s achievements as a performer but also raises awareness about substance abuse and highlights her lasting impact on LGBTQ+ culture and the drag community worldwide.
Dear Viv Trailer
Here’s the trailer:
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