The GLAAD Media Awards celebrated its 37th annual ceremony on Thursday night in Los Angeles, honoring outstanding LGBTQ representation in media. The event recognized a diverse range of television shows, films, and personalities that have made significant contributions to LGBTQ visibility and storytelling.
One of the big winners of the night was “Heated Rivalry,” the popular HBO Max/Crave series created by Jacob Tierney. The show, which follows the love story of two professional hockey players played by Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams, was named outstanding new TV series. “Stranger Things” also received recognition, winning outstanding drama series for its fifth and final season. Additionally, “Traitors” took home the award for outstanding reality competition program, while Bravo’s “Southern Hospitality” was honored as outstanding reality program.
In the film category, “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” directed by Bill Condon and starring Jennifer Lopez, Tonatiuh, and Diego Luna, received the award for outstanding wide theatrical release. Indie rom-com “Nice Indian Boy,” featuring Karan Soni and Jonathan Groff, and drama “Plainclothes,” starring Tom Blyth and Russell Tovey, tied for the award for limited theatrical release.
The ceremony, hosted by Jonathan Bennett at the Beverly Hilton, also included special honors for Quinta Brunson, who received the Vanguard Award for her contributions to LGBTQ visibility in media. Additionally, “Las Culturistas” co-hosts Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers were recognized with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for their work in promoting LGBTQ representation and acceptance.
Overall, the 37th GLAAD Media Awards showcased the importance of diverse and inclusive storytelling in media, honoring those who have made a significant impact in advancing LGBTQ visibility and representation. The event served as a reminder of the power of storytelling to inspire change and create a more inclusive world for all. The 2022 Kolzak Award ceremony was a night to remember, with surprise appearances and stellar performances that left the audience in awe. The highlight of the evening was Liza Minnelli’s unexpected appearance to celebrate her 80th birthday and the upcoming release of her memoir, “Kids, Wait Till Hear This!”
The event also featured unforgettable performances by Demi Lovato and Sony Music Group artist Eli, adding to the star-studded lineup of the night. The atmosphere was electric as the winners of the prestigious Kolzak Awards were announced, recognizing excellence in various categories of entertainment and media.
Among the winners were standout shows like “Heated Rivalry” for Outstanding New TV Series, “Stranger Things” for Outstanding Drama Series, and “Palm Royale” for Outstanding Comedy Series. The film category saw “Kiss of the Spider Woman” taking home the award for Outstanding Film in Wide Theatrical Release.
Other notable winners included “Queen of Coal” for Outstanding Film in Streaming or TV, “Come See Me in the Good Light” for Outstanding Documentary, and “Lost Records: Bloom & Rage” for Outstanding Video Game. The awards also recognized outstanding talent in music, theater, literature, and journalism across various platforms.
In the Spanish-language categories, standout winners included “Mariliendre” for Outstanding Scripted Television Series and special recognition for Andry José Hernández Romero for “Before We Forget.”
The evening was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and excellence in LGBTQ media, with each winner showcasing the power of storytelling and representation. The Kolzak Awards continue to honor and uplift LGBTQ voices in the entertainment industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future.
As the night came to a close, attendees left inspired and empowered, looking forward to the next chapter of LGBTQ representation in media and entertainment. The 2022 Kolzak Awards were a testament to the talent, resilience, and creativity of the LGBTQ community, setting the stage for a brighter and more inclusive future in the industry.
