The 36th annual GLAAD Media Awards, set to take place on March 27 in Los Angeles, has announced its host—actor and director Michael Urie. Known for his diverse roles in television, film, and theater, Urie expressed deep honor and pride in hosting this significant event. He emphasized the importance of media as a powerful tool in combating stereotypes and promoting acceptance. The ceremony will gather numerous celebrities and advocates, including Maren Morris, Jay Shetty, and Cynthia Erivo, who will receive the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for her contributions to LGBTQ visibility. This event aims to celebrate nominees while raising awareness and support for LGBTQ communities facing adversity.
A Night of Recognition and Solidarity in Hollywood
In the heart of Los Angeles, on March 27, the entertainment industry will come together for an evening dedicated to recognizing outstanding contributions to LGBTQ representation in media. Michael Urie, a multifaceted talent celebrated for his roles in various productions such as Ugly Betty, Modern Family, and Shrinking, will lead the night as the host. Urie's commitment to using media as a force for positive change resonates deeply with the mission of the GLAAD Media Awards. He believes that this platform can serve as a reminder to marginalized queer individuals that they are not alone and deserve recognition and respect.
The event promises to be a star-studded affair, with notable figures like Maren Morris, Jay Shetty, and Abby Wambach joining the celebration. Among the highlights is the presentation of the Stephen F. Kolzak Award to Cynthia Erivo, honoring her efforts in elevating LGBTQ voices. The ceremony is produced by GLAAD under the leadership of Sarah Kate Ellis, Rich Ferraro, and Anthony Allen Ramos, ensuring that it remains a pivotal moment for LGBTQ advocacy.
Urie's career spans across multiple platforms, from his breakthrough role in Ugly Betty to his current work in Shrinking. His dedication to theater is equally impressive, having starred alongside Sutton Foster in Broadway’s Once Upon A Mattress. Beyond performing, Urie is also a co-founder of Pride Plays, an initiative that amplifies LGBTQIA+ narratives in theater, and he recently launched a podcast revisiting Ugly Betty.
Supported by sponsors like Hyundai, Hornitos Tequila, and Delta Air Lines, the GLAAD Media Awards continue to be a beacon of hope and celebration for the LGBTQ community. The event underscores the transformative power of media and art in fostering inclusivity and acceptance.
From a journalist's perspective, this gathering serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role media plays in shaping societal attitudes. It highlights the responsibility we all share in promoting diversity and challenging harmful stereotypes. The GLAAD Media Awards not only celebrate achievements but also inspire ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive world through storytelling.