Boy George has won the Lifetime Achievement prize at the British LGBT Awards, held at the luxurious London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square on Thursday evening. The 64-year-old Karma Chameleon singer was presented with the honour by designer Jean Paul Gaultier, receiving a standing ovation as he collected the award.
A Night of Recognition
Upon accepting the accolade, Boy George said: "This acknowledgement is a real honour. I've always believed in being unapologetically yourself, so to be recognised in this way means a great deal to me." He added: "To share the room with the inspirational other nominees has been wonderful. As a community, we know when to come together to fight for what's right. The stories, passions and activism that I've witnessed tonight have been deeply moving and incredibly inspiring."
The former I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! star, known for his eccentric fashion choices, wore an archival hat from the personal collection of Stephen Jones. Jean Paul Gaultier, who presented the award, acknowledged the artist's extraordinary contribution to music, culture and LGBT+ visibility over a career spanning more than four decades.
Double Triumph
The evening proved to be a double triumph for Boy George, who also received the Music Artist of the Year award, presented by Loose Women panellists Jane Moore, Kaye Adams and Sunetra Sarker.
Sarah Garrett, Founder of the British LGBT Awards, said: "Boy George is a true icon whose impact extends far beyond music. For decades, he has challenged convention, championed individuality and inspired countless people to live authentically and without fear. His influence on culture and visibility within the LGBT+ community is immeasurable. We are incredibly proud to honour him with this year's Lifetime Achievement award."
Other Winners
Other big winners on the night included broadcaster Rylan, who took home Broadcaster of the Year; Kate Winslet as Advocate of the Year; and Alan Cumming as Celebrity of the Year. Celebrated English screenwriter, actor, playwright and author Jonathan Harvey received a Special Recognition honour for his outstanding contribution to British culture and LGBTQ+ representation across stage and screen.
In corporate categories, winners included supermarket Tesco, charity Sahir House and KPMG.
The British LGBT Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that have made a significant impact in advancing LGBT+ inclusion and equality across the UK and beyond. Rebecca Twomey, Head of Showbiz at the Mirror, said: "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."
