A man has been arrested on suspicion of a homophobic attack on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star The Vivienne.
The 31-year-old, real name James Lee Williams, rose to fame after competing in the series in 2019, going on to star on the likes of Dancing On Ice and This Is Going To Hurt.
On Friday the TV star alleged she had been subject to a homophobic attack in Liverpool, saying homophobia was ‘alive and well.’
Merseyside Polie have now confirmed an arrest has been made.
They said in a statement: ‘We have arrested a man following reports a man was subjected to a homophobic assault in Liverpool today, Friday 16th June.
‘The victim, who is in his 30s, reported he was in McDonalds on Edge Lane in Old Swan at around 12.25pm when a man made homophobic comments towards him and then punched him in the face. The man then made off.’
A man was arrested on suspicion of s47 assault and is in custody where he is set to be questioned by police. The statement went on to confirm enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Detective Inspector Alan Nuttall condemned the ‘shocking’ attack, saying there was ‘no place for hate crime’ in Liverpool.
He said: ”Enquiries are in the very early stages. This was a shocking attack which happened in broad daylight in what would have been a busy venue.
‘There is no place for hate crime in our city and Merseyside Police has a zero tolerance approach to these incidents.
‘I would ask anyone who has information about this incident to contact us either directly or via Crimestoppers.
‘Merseyside Police is committed to tackling hate crime across our communities. We would encourage all victims of hate crime to come forward as we have officers and staff dedicated to protecting victims who will make sure you are supported at every step as sensitively as possible.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook with the reference log 514 of 16th June, by calling 101 or by contacting Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The Vivienne shocked fans on Friday when she detailed the alleged attack on Twitter, writing: ‘Just been attacked in McDonald’s, Police on way. Homophobia alive and well folks!
‘First time I’ve never retaliated in a fight because I’m not gonna punch somebody in front of kids and women. #pieceofs**t.’
Her post was showered in support and well-wishes, with fans ‘sending love’ and commenting that they hope she’s okay.
The Viv later confirmed in an update: ‘Police on way x.’
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