Title: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Leaders and Allies: The Elton John Impact Awards Podcast and Audio Special
The Elton John Impact Awards have been unveiled today as a podcast series and audio special, expanding iHeartMedia’s annual Pride programming. The podcast is now accessible on the iHeartRadio app and other platforms, while the audio special will air tonight at 8pm ET on iHeartRadio’s Pride stations. Hosted by Billy Porter and Elvis Duran, the awards honor LGBTQ+ leaders and allies like Jonathan Bailey, Laverne Cox, Melissa Etheridge, Billie Jean King, Orville Peck, and Chappell Roan for their contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility and equality.
The Elton John Impact Awards build on the success of the initiative introduced in 2022 during iHeartMedia’s “Can’t Cancel Pride” virtual benefit concert. The awards aim to be a year-round storytelling platform supporting LGBTQ+ organizations through content and fundraising efforts. A panel of advisors, including Elton John, David Furnish, Brandi Carlile, Anne Aslett, Brent Miller, and John Sykes, selected this year’s recipients. Elton John encouraged younger LGBTQ+ activists to stand together and make a difference during the podcast recording.
The podcast delves into the personal stories of each honoree, exploring the challenges, milestones, and experiences that have shaped their journeys. Dove Cameron pays tribute to Elton John’s legacy by performing his classic “Your Song” to mark the launch. The program also serves as a fundraising platform for LGBTQ+ organizations, with proceeds benefiting the Elton John AIDS Foundation, CenterLink, GLAAD, National Black Justice Collective, Outright International, SAGE, and The Trevor Project through a partnership with Brandi Carlile's Looking Out Foundation.
In conclusion, the Elton John Impact Awards podcast and audio special celebrate LGBTQ+ leaders and allies, offering a platform for their stories and contributions to be recognized and supported. Through a partnership with various LGBTQ+ organizations, the awards aim to make a positive impact and raise awareness for important causes within the community.