Top Moments from the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles
The 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards brought Hollywood’s biggest LGBTQ+ allies and icons together for a night of celebration, advocacy, and powerful speeches. Held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, this year’s ceremony honored outstanding LGBTQ+ representation in media, with emotional tributes, surprise appearances, and calls to action against rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
Standout Moments from the Star-Studded Event
1. Niecy Nash-Betts’ Moving Speech
Emmy-winning actress Niecy Nash-Betts received the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for her advocacy and allyship. In an emotional acceptance speech, she dedicated the honor to her late brother, Michael, who was gay and died of AIDS-related complications. “I stand here for him, and for every LGBTQ+ person who ever felt unseen,” she said, earning a standing ovation.
2. “The Last of Us” Wins Big
HBO’s The Last of Us took home Outstanding Drama Series, with showrunner Craig Mazin and star Pedro Pascal accepting the award. Pascal, whose character Joel becomes a father figure to the queer protagonist Ellie (Bella Ramsey), praised the show’s LGBTQ+ storytelling: “This is how you normalize love—by showing it in all its forms.”
3. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Makes History
The groundbreaking reality competition won Outstanding Reality Program, marking its 10th GLAAD Media Award—the most wins in this category. RuPaul dedicated the award to drag performers facing bans and restrictions across the U.S., saying, “Drag is art, and art is resistance.”
4. Trans Visibility Takes Center Stage
Alexandra Billings (Transparent, The Conners) delivered a powerful keynote on the importance of trans representation in Hollywood. “We are not a trend. Our stories are not up for debate,” she declared, referencing the surge in anti-trans legislation.
5. Surprise Appearance by Elliot Page
The Umbrella Academy star made an unannounced appearance to present an award, receiving massive applause. Page, who came out as trans in 2020, spoke about the importance of authentic storytelling: “When we see ourselves on screen, it saves lives.”
Full List of Major Winners
- Outstanding Film – Wide Release: Bros (Universal Pictures)
- Outstanding Film – Limited Release: The Inspection (A24)
- Outstanding Comedy Series: Hacks (HBO Max)
- Outstanding Music Artist: Fletcher (Girl of My Dreams)
- Special Recognition Award: A League of Their Own (Amazon Prime)
The Night’s Biggest Takeaways
This year’s GLAAD Media Awards underscored the entertainment industry’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights—especially amid increasing political attacks. From heartfelt speeches to historic wins, the evening proved that representation isn’t just important—it’s life-changing.