What were the highlights of the GLAAD Media Awards 2026?
The 37th GLAAD Media Awards were held on March 5, 2026, in Los Angeles, showcasing the achievements of LGBTQ individuals and stories in media. Jonathan Bennett hosted the event, which recognized over 300 nominees across 30 categories.
Among the notable winners, Young Miko was awarded outstanding music artist, while KATSEYE took home the title of outstanding breakthrough music artist. The evening also honored Liza Minnelli with GLAAD’s Inaugural Liza Minnelli Storyteller Award, celebrating her contributions to storytelling.
Quinta Brunson received the Vanguard Award, expressing her gratitude by stating, “I want to thank GLAAD for honoring me with the Vanguard Award… and for being such big and amazing supporters of Abbott Elementary since we premiered Day One.” Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers were recognized with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for their advocacy and representation in the industry.
The awards also highlighted significant television productions, with “Heated Rivalry” winning outstanding new TV series, and “Stranger Things” recognized as outstanding drama series. Additionally, “Palm Royale” was awarded outstanding comedy series, while “The Traitors” won outstanding reality competition program.
Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD’s President and CEO, emphasized the importance of representation, stating, “LGBTQ people are parents. We are business leaders. Philanthropists and creators.” This reflects the ongoing mission of the GLAAD Media Awards to honor fair, accurate, and inclusive LGBTQ stories.
The awards ceremony will be available for streaming exclusively on Hulu starting March 21, 2026, allowing a wider audience to engage with the celebrated stories and performances from the night.
As the event concluded, attendees and viewers alike were left with a sense of pride in the progress made within the media landscape for LGBTQ representation, while also recognizing the work that remains to be done.
