Ruby Wax Announced as Host for 2026 British LGBT Awards Ceremony
Comedian and mental health campaigner Ruby Wax has been confirmed as the host for the 2026 British LGBT Awards, with the 72-year-old star declaring she "couldn't be prouder" to take on the prestigious role. The ceremony, now in its thirteenth year, will take place on 28 May 2026 in London, bringing together celebrities, business leaders, and community champions to honour those advancing LGBTQ+ equality.
Wax's Excitement and Career Connection to LGBTQ+ Community
Upon the announcement, Ruby Wax expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating: "I am so excited to join everybody at the British LGBT Awards this year. The LGBTQI+ community has supported me throughout my whole career, so there is no event I’d be prouder to stand behind." The former talk show host, renowned for her work on Absolutely Fabulous and her recent stint on I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!, emphasised her deep personal connection to the community she will be celebrating.
Reunion with Jungle Co-Star Tom Read Wilson
The hosting gig will see Ruby Wax reunited with her I'm A Celebrity campmate Tom Read Wilson, who will be conducting interviews with award winners throughout the evening. Read Wilson commented: "The British LGBT Awards is a landmark event that acknowledges inclusion and equality and deserves to be richly celebrated. I’m really proud to be playing a part in that celebration in May. I’m sure I join the rest of the crowd in saying how much I am looking forward to seeing the fabulous Ruby Wax serve pride and punchlines on the night."
Diverse Shortlist and Public Voting Process
This year's awards shortlist features an impressive array of nominees across multiple categories, including:
- LGBT+ Celebrity: Alan Cumming and Andrew Scott
- Inclusive Companies: British Airways, Sky UK, and Virgin Media O2
- Business Allies: Representatives from Linklaters, Moody's, and KPMG
- Charity Initiatives: Organisations like Gendered Intelligence and The Proud Trust
The awards are determined by public vote, with voting typically opening several months before the ceremony and closing just prior to the event. Last year's LGBT+ Celebrity award was won by Big Brother champion Ali Bromley, following previous recipient Rylan Clark.
Organisers Praise Hosting Duo's Qualities
Sarah Garrett, Founder of the British LGBT Awards, highlighted the perfect combination that Wax and Read Wilson bring to the ceremony: "Between Ruby’s razor-sharp wit and Tom’s warmth and charisma, we know this year’s ceremony will be full of joy, laughter and unforgettable moments. They both embody the spirit of authenticity and allyship that sits at the heart of our awards, and we couldn’t be more excited to have them lead such a special night."
Media Support and Ceremony Significance
Rebecca Twomey, Head of Showbiz at the Mirror, added: "We're thrilled to put our support behind this incredible award ceremony which champions the LGBTQ+ community. The Mirror is all about bringing people together and championing all voices from the heart of Britain." The glittering event promises to be a landmark moment for representation, recognising everyone from global superstars to grassroots heroes united in their commitment to driving positive change.
The full host line-up and additional special guests for the 2026 British LGBT Awards will be announced in the coming weeks, building anticipation for what organisers describe as an evening celebrating progress, pride, and possibility.
