It’s just a matter of days until the 2023 British LGBT Awards ceremony kicks off in London.
The eagerly-anticipated event will honour the celebrities, campaigners and community activists who have helped advance the fight for LGBT+ rights during the past 12 months.
Rebel Wilson, Kit Connor, Emma Corrin, Yasmin Finney, Joe Lycett and Becky Hill are among the nominees.
Hosted by TV personality Sue Perkins, the awards – sponsored by Macquarie – will bring together some of the biggest names from media and entertainment.
It will also gather some of the country’s biggest businesses for a major night celebrating LGBT+ achievements.
‘The British LGBT Awards just gets bigger every year,’ said founder Sarah Garrett MBE.
‘It really has become a staple event for the LGBT+ community and gives us an opportunity to celebrate the many successes and achievements within our community but most importantly this event shows young people who may be struggling with their sexuality that being lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender is not a barrier to success.
‘The British LGBT Award involves the public on a huge scale, the public decides the nominees and the winners.
‘It is incredible that so many people get involved. Friday’s event is set to be really special – Sue Perkins is returning as host and there are going to be some fantastic moments.
‘We’re really looking forward to it.’
To see the full list of nominations and cast your vote, click here.
Ahead of the event on Friday, which is being supported by Metro, here are six things to expect:
1. LGBT+ celebrities out in force
Organisers are promising a night packed with celebrity guests.
Not only is Sue Perkins hosting but stars including musician Olly Alexander, comedian Julian Clary, TV presenter Rylan Clark, Britain’s Got Talent judge Bruno Tonioli, boxing legend Nicola Adams and music icons Holly Johnson and Andy Bell are all expected to be in attendance.
2. Tribute to Paul O’Grady
The untimely passing of TV royalty Paul O’Grady earlier this year sent shockwaves through the LGBT+ community and beyond.
The broadcaster and Lily Savage star was a trailblazer of the LGBT+ community.
O’Grady was known for support of a number of charitable campaigns including those which help people living with HIV and AIDS.
The British LGBT Awards is planning a special tribute to the man himself.
3. LGBT+ allies showing support
The British LGBT Awards annually celebrates allies of the community with a special award.
Michelle Visage, Harry Styles, Alison Hammond, Emma Watson and Katherine Ryan are all in the running for the Celebrity Ally of the Year gong.
Celebs such as Lorraine Kelly, Denise Welch, Roman Kemp and Shirley Ballas are also expected to attend and show their support.
4. Brand and businesses will be recognised
Some of the country’s best-loved brands and businesses are also in the running for awards for demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and the LGBT+ community.
BOOTS, Gymshark, Virgin Atltanic and The AA are amongst those vying for in the Brand or Marketing Campaign category.
The hotly contested prize is decided by the British LGBT Awards expert judging panel which includes distinguished names from business and the media.
5. Big name winners
HRH Prince William, former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, pop queen Kylie Minogue, Caitlyn Jenner and Ru Paul are just some of the big name winners to bag a British LGBT Award in recent years.
Organisers are tight lipped on this year’s recipients but it is expected that there will be some surprise star guests taking home accolades on the night.
6. Show-stopping after party
There have been big name DJ performances and celebrities partying into the small honours at the legendary British LGBT Awards after party over the years and it is set to be no different on Friday.
With the event taking place in the middle of Pride month, expect camp classics and a packed dance floor as nominees and winners celebrate their success ‘at Britain’s own gay Oscars’.
To find out more about the ceremony, taking place this Friday, head over to the official website.
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
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