UK LGBT Awards 2023 WINNERS: Paloma Faith and Becky Hill scoop gongs as Paul O’Grady’s emotional husband accepts honor for late star
Paloma Faith and Becky Hill were named the winners of the 2023 British LGBT Awards in London on Friday night.
In what was the most emotional and poignant moment of the evening, comedian Julian Clary presented a special award to the husband of the late Paul O’Grady, Andre Portasio.
The much-loved TV star was a multiple British LGBT Award winner before his sudden death in March and was set to attend this year’s ceremony to receive the Broadcaster of the Year award.
Clary paid a touching tribute to his friend who created Lily Savage for a brilliant TV career.
Comedian Katherine Ryan, 39, and singer-songwriter Andy Bell, 59, also took home gongs, with the 1980s music legend and Erasure frontman taking home the Lifetime Achievement award.
Awarded: Paloma Faith won big at the 2023 British LGBT Awards in London on Friday night
Moving: In what was the most emotional and poignant moment of the night, comedian Julian Clary presented the husband of the late Paul O’Grady, Andre Portasio (pictured), with a special award
Beloved: Paul was a multiple British LGBT Award winner before his sudden death in March
Paloma, who has provided vocal support for the transgender equality campaign, said she was “proud” to receive her award for LGBTQ+ Advocacy.
Speaking at the event, the music star said: “It is essential that we support the LGBTQ+ community and stand up for those who are targeted because of their sexuality.
“I am very honored to have won a British LGBT Award. It really is a highlight in my career. I just hope I can make a small difference with my platform.”
Held in partnership with Tesco and Macquarie Group, comedian and much-loved TV presenter Sue Perkins was back for the second year running to host the event dubbed the ‘Gay Oscars’.
The British LGBT Awards celebrate the UK’s most loved LGBT personalities, innovators and businesses, as well as the allies and organizations that support them.
Becky was awarded the Celebrity of the Year award, beating BRIT Award-winning recording artist Mika, pansexual singer-songwriter Yungblud and British recording artist Cat Burns.
Footballer Jake Daniels, who came out as gay in 2021, was awarded the Sports Personality of the Year award, with organizers paying tribute to his leadership and bravery.
The Netflix hit Heartstopper – which is gearing up for its second season – was awarded the Media Moments award, while Mark Ferris, 32, was named the winner in the Online Influencers category.
Making memories: Paloma said she was ‘proud’ and ‘deeply honored’ to receive her award for LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Touching moment: Comedian Julian Clary, 64, presented the late Paul O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio (pictured right) with a special award for the funny man
Lady in red: Canadian star, Katherine Ryan , 39, turned heads in a red satin dress with rouge peep-toe heels as she accepted the award for Celebrity Allies
Gong: Michael Gunning (L) poses with Jake Daniels’ agent accepting the award Jake won for Sports Personality
Congratulations: Andy Bell poses with the award for Lifetime Achievement
Elsewhere, KPMG’s Mariana Ceccotti received an Inspirational Leader award, while Virgin Atlantic was honored with a Best Brand or Marketing Campaign award.
Radio 1 DJ and LGBT+ rights activist, Dean McCullough, said of the winners: ‘It was absolutely fantastic to be a part of the UK’s LGBT Awards and showcase all these incredible winners. It was a brilliant evening celebrating the very best of our community.”
The founder of the British LGBT Awards, Sarah Garrett MBE, added: ‘Tonight was a fantastic celebration of the very best from our community and I congratulate all the winners.
“The British LGBT Awards have become the most recognizable awards event for LGBT+ people in the UK since we started eight years ago.
“We were delighted to honor those who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing LGBT+ rights. All winners and nominees are incredibly meritorious.’
