Celebrating Stars and Stories: Highlights from the 2025 Dorian Awards

Glamour and Advocacy Unveiled: Stars Shine at the 2025 Dorian Awards, Celebrating LGBTQ Voices in Film

The 2025 Dorian Awards, presented by GALECA, celebrated the shining stars of the LGBTQ entertainment community and showcased an array of dazzling performances and productions. Among the most notable winners was pop icon Ariana Grande, who reigned victorious in the category of supporting film performance of the year for her role in *Wicked*. This win is significant, as she triumphed over strong contenders like Zoe Saldaña from *Emilia Pérez*, making headlines as her most formidable rival ahead of the Oscars. Grande's unwavering support for the LGBTQ community has established a deep bond with her fans, and this award is a testament to her impact on the world of film and beyond.

Grande wasn’t the only star to shine that night. Her *Wicked* co-stars, Cynthia Erivo and Jonathan Bailey, also took home awards, with Erivo recognized as an LGBTQIA+ film trailblazer—a category reflecting her exceptional contributions to cinema, fitting for someone already nominated for an Oscar in the best actress category. Meanwhile, Bailey captured the "we’re wilde about you!" rising star award, emphasizing his rapid ascent in the industry. These honors underscore the collaborative spirit and camaraderie among the cast, highlighting the success of their collective journey in bringing *Wicked* to life on screen.

While Grande's recognition drew significant attention, the evening belonged largely to the body-horror film *The Substance*, which swept five awards. This film achieved an impressive feat by winning accolades for both film of the year and campiest flick, a rare pairing in award shows. In addition to these honors, Demi Moore was celebrated for her outstanding performance in the film, while director Coralie Fargeat took home the award for director of the year. Moore's accolades were not limited to this single night; she received the timeless star award, recognizing her extensive and influential career. A past recipient of this non-competitive achievement award includes screen legends like Jodie Foster and Jane Fonda, further cementing Moore’s status in Hollywood.

Among the standout winners of the night were three productions that captured double honors: *I Saw the TV Glow*, awarded both LGBTQ film of the year and LGBTQ screenplay of the year for Jane Schoenbrun; *Will & Harper*, named the documentary of the year and LGBTQ documentary of the year; and *Challengers*, which garnered recognition for screenplay of the year by Justin Kuritzkes and film music of the year for Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The score created by Reznor and Ross, despite being overlooked for an Oscar nomination, has gained critical acclaim, securing multiple prestigious awards such as a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award. At the Dorian Awards, their music bested compositions from Oscar-nominated works, affirming its powerful impact.

Founded in 2009, GALECA aims to honor the best in film, television, and stage, with a particular emphasis on celebrating LGBTQIA+ contributions. Their mission is clear: to enlighten audiences and uplift those within the community while combating societal discrimination. By recognizing exceptional talent and diverse storytelling, GALECA seeks to remind everyone that cinema and art can drive social discourse and foster acceptance. The dazzling array of winners and the engaging atmosphere of the night served as a vibrant acknowledgement of LGBTQIA+ stories, showcasing a remarkable blend of artistry and representation within the entertainment industry.

The complete winners list from the 2025 Dorian Awards not only reflects the diversity of talent in the film industry but also highlights the stories that resonate with audiences. *The Substance*’s success, alongside *I Saw the TV Glow* and *Will & Harper*, illustrates the growing recognition and importance of LGBTQ narratives in mainstream cinema. As these films continue to achieve praise and accolades, they pave the way for future productions that challenge traditional storytelling norms. These celebrations affirm the belief that art has the power to connect, uplift, and inspire change, further solidifying the need for organizations like GALECA to exist and thrive.

The evening was a joyous reminder of the intersection of talent, storytelling, and advocacy within Hollywood. With Ariana Grande, Demi Moore, and the many shining stars recognized at the Dorian Awards, one can see the palpable momentum building behind diverse voices and experiences. The ceremony showcased not only the individual accomplishments of these artists but also the collective progress made towards inclusivity and representation in the entertainment world. As audiences continue to embrace and support these narratives, they help shape a more inclusive future in film and beyond, celebrating the rich tapestry of identities and stories that deserve to be told. The 2025 Dorian Awards were not just an event—they were a vibrant celebration of art, resilience, and community, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of LGBTQ entertainment.