iHeartMedia and Procter & Gamble are teaming up with the Elton John AIDS Foundation to launch the inaugural Elton John Impact Awards, a new audio special celebrating LGBTQ+ trailblazers, allies, and organizations making a difference around the world.
Hosted by Billy Porter and Elvis Duran, the podcast-style special premieres June 1 across iHeartRadio PRIDE stations and podcast platforms. The event will spotlight a powerful lineup of honorees, including Jonathan Bailey, Laverne Cox, Melissa Etheridge, Billie Jean King, Orville Peck, and Chappell Roan.
And yes, there’s even a special performance from Dove Cameron, who will perform Elton John’s iconic ballad “Your Song” during the broadcast.
A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Impact
The Elton John Impact Awards are not just about celebrity recognition. The event also aims to raise visibility and funding for LGBTQ+ organizations providing critical services and advocacy. Beneficiaries include GLAAD, The Trevor Project, SAGE, CenterLink, National Black Justice Collective, and Outright International.
“The Elton John Impact Awards spotlight the vital work of organizations protecting LGBTQ+ communities and advancing health equity around the world,” said David Furnish, Chair of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. “At a time when LGBTQ+ rights and health equity remain under threat globally, investing in organizations on the frontlines has never been more urgent.”
Jonathan Bailey, Chappell Roan & More Honored
This year’s honorees were selected for their impact both inside and outside of entertainment.
Bailey is being recognized not only for his work on screen and stage, but also for launching The Shameless Fund to support LGBTQ+ charities.
Cox continues to be one of the most visible and outspoken transgender advocates in mainstream media, while Etheridge is being celebrated for decades of LGBTQ+ activism through music and storytelling.
Meanwhile, Orville Peck’s queer reimagining of country music and Chappell Roan’s outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and trans youth have made both artists cultural forces for a new generation of queer fans.
Elton John Reflects on LGBTQ+ History
Elton John will also appear during the special, reflecting on the importance of preserving LGBTQ+ stories and continuing the fight for equality.
“These conversations bring together the people who have shaped LGBTQ+ culture and fought for dignity at a time when the world too often looked away,” Elton shared. “Some are friends who stood beside me through the AIDS crisis, others are carrying the torch forward with the new generation.”
The Elton John Impact Awards will air June 1 on iHeartRadio PRIDE stations and stream wherever podcasts are available.
