Actress and activist Sophia Bush was one of the standout figures at the 2025 GLAAD Media Awards, where she used her platform to emphasize the importance of LGBTQ+ representation and the power of queer values in shaping American culture. Bush, who introduced GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis at the event, also took the stage to reflect on her personal journey of self-discovery and to advocate for marginalized communities in the current media landscape.
The awards ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, honored individuals and media projects that have made significant contributions to the representation of LGBTQ+ people in film, television, music, journalism, and beyond. While Cynthia Erivo was celebrated with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award and rapper Doechii earned recognition as Outstanding Music Artist, it was Bush’s heartfelt and humorous remarks that captured the attention of the audience.
Bush Reflects on Her Journey and Representation
During her introduction of Ellis, Bush took a lighthearted approach, joking about her own coming out experience. “My membership card came in the mail,” she quipped, pulling out a U-Haul card from inside her corset to the delight of the crowd. The joke was a nod to the stereotype of lesbian couples quickly becoming committed and, for Bush, a way to break the ice before diving into the more serious topic of representation.
Sophia Bush pulling out a U-Haul card from inside her corset. Photo: Getty Images
Bush went on to talk about the life-changing impact of seeing queer representation in the media, particularly referencing the music of Melissa Etheridge. “Melissa Etheridge changed mine when she first sang ‘Come to My Window.’ It was a big clue for me back in 1993, and for my parents,” she said. The actress also shared a touching moment about her 2006 film John Tucker Must Die, in which she shared a kiss with Brittany Snow. Bush revealed that many fans have reached out to her over the years, saying that the scene was a pivotal moment for their own coming out process.
“I’ve been very blessed to hear from so many queer people that my role in John Tucker Must Die was an ‘aha moment’ for them,” Bush said. “It’s a privilege to have been a part of something that helped them realize who they are.”
The Importance of Representation and Advocacy
Bush’s speech was not only a reflection on her own experiences but a call to action for those in the room and the broader media landscape. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals are not only seen on screen but also heard and supported off-screen.
“Representation changes lives,” Bush told the audience. “It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a reality that we need to keep fighting for. The stories we tell shape the world around us, and right now, at a time when so many marginalized communities are under attack, our voices are more important than ever.”
She also highlighted the importance of queer values as an essential part of American values. “We need leaders who remind the world that our values, queer values, are American values,” Bush said, reinforcing her belief that the LGBTQ+ community’s fight for acceptance is integral to the fight for equality in America.
The 2025 GLAAD Media Awards: A Night of Celebration and Advocacy
The 2025 GLAAD Media Awards celebrated more than just Bush’s speech. The night was filled with moments of laughter, reflection, and solidarity. Host Michael Urie kicked off the evening with a blend of humor and activism, calling attention to the challenges the LGBTQ+ community faces while also celebrating the strides that have been made in the fight for equality. Urie’s opening monologue included powerful statements about restoring visibility for transgender people and advocating for continued progress in the media.
Other notable winners included My Old Ass, which won Outstanding Film, and Will & Harper, which earned Outstanding Documentary. The Outstanding Music Artist award went to Doechii while Erivo, who received the Stephen F. Kolzak Award, was also celebrated for her advocacy and contributions to the entertainment industry.
A Call for Continued Advocacy
Bush’s remarks at the GLAAD Media Awards underscored the continued need for media that authentically represents LGBTQ+ communities and the ongoing fight for equality. As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: while much progress has been made, there is still work to be done, and those in positions of power in the media must continue to advocate for change.
The 2025 GLAAD Media Awards will stream on Hulu on April 12, showcasing the moments and stories that continue to shape the visibility of LGBTQ+ people in entertainment and beyond.
