Britney honoured at GLAAD Awards
THIS IS US was named outstanding television drama Thursday at the GLAAD Media Awards at a ceremony that buzzed with excitement for honoree Britney Spears.
The 29th annual ceremony held Thursday at the Beverly Hilton Hotel also recognised Master of None for an episode in which Lena Waithe’s character comes out to her family.
Waithe co-wrote the episode, which drew on her own experiences coming out. Halle Berry presented her the award, and the actresses embraced before Waithe delivered her acceptance speech.
The night’s biggest honour went to Spears, who was presented the Vanguard Award by Ricky Martin. The award recognizes an entertainer GLAAD says has made a significant difference in promoting equality and acceptance of LGBTQ people. Past honorees including Jennifer Lopez, Cher, Antonio Banderas and Demi Lovato.
Spears in her acceptance speech said becoming a mother taught her to love unconditionally.
“I feel like our society has always put such an emphasis on what’s normal, and to be different is unusual or is seen as strange, but to be accepted unconditionally and to be able to express yourself as an individual through art, is such a blessing,” she said. “Events like this ... show the world that we are not alone.”
Her speech received resounding cheers from an audience, which included Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon and Pentatonix singer Scott Hoying, who were thrilled to see the pop singer and reflect on her impact on them.
“I remember being a kid, dancing to Oops I Did It Again in my room, like a little gay Scott, and (tonight) we’re performing on stage in front of Britney and it’s just kind of like a full-circle moment,” Hoying said on the red carpet before the ceremony.
Rippon already had his pitch ready in case he met Spears.
“I’d be like, ‘Can we do an Instagram fashion show please? I only need 15 seconds of your time . ... Or a few days. ‘This will only take a few hours,’” he joked on the red carpet.