The 37th edition of the GLAAD Media Awards is set to take place on 5th March 2026 in Los Angeles, promising a night of celebration and recognition for outstanding representations of LGBTQ+ individuals and issues in the media over the past year. The ceremony will be hosted by actor Jonathan Bennett, best known for his role in the popular film “Mean Girls,” as well as his ventures with Hallmark.
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This year’s event will include a special performance by pop icon Demi Lovato, known for her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Lovato’s involvement is expected to enhance the celebratory atmosphere of the awards, which aim to shine a light on important narratives and characters within the LGBTQ+ community.
Among those being honoured at the ceremony is Quinta Brunson, the creator of the hit series “Abbott Elementary.” Brunson will be presented with the Vanguard Award, recognising her efforts to elevate LGBTQ+ representation in media. This award is a testament to her influential work and commitment to inclusivity in storytelling.
Additional honours will be awarded to podcast hosts and actors Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, known for their work on “Las Culturistas.” They will receive the Stephen F. Kolzak Award, which acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community and promoted visibility and acceptance. Their work has had a notable impact, particularly in engaging younger audiences with LGBTQ+ issues through comedy and conversation.
In addition to the awards, the event highlights involvement from various media outlets. Notably, PEOPLE magazine has received a nomination for “Outstanding Magazine Overall Coverage,” showcasing the publication’s dedication to covering LGBTQ+ stories and perspectives throughout the year.
The awards ceremony will also be a gathering of notable celebrities, many of whom have played vital roles in advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility. As attendees begin to arrive, anticipation builds around the red carpet moments which typically provide insight into the fashion and personal styles of these stars.
Among the expected arrivals are prominent figures such as Laverne Cox, known for her groundbreaking role in “Orange Is the New Black,” reality TV star Chrishell Stause, and rising star Noah Schnapp. Their presence underscores the significance of the awards in bringing together personalities from various fields to support the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ representation and rights.
With the backdrop of Los Angeles serving as a vibrant hub for entertainment, the GLAAD Media Awards are poised to not only celebrate the past year’s achievements but also to inspire future generations. The event represents a crucial moment for the media industry to reflect on its progress while recognising the work that remains to be done to promote equality and acceptance.
As the date approaches, excitement continues to build around the ceremony’s potential for both celebration and advocacy. The GLAAD Media Awards remain a pivotal event for highlighting LGBTQ+ narratives, making it an essential occasion on the industry calendar every year.