Mariah Carey lit up the stage at Brighton Pride 2025 with a performance as dazzling as it was heartfelt, offering not only hit songs but a bold show of allyship to the LGBTQ+ community.
The pop icon and longtime supporter of queer rights delivered a spectacular headlining set on Saturday, August 2, during Pride in the Park at Preston Park. Fans from across the UK—and around the globe—gathered in droves to watch the music legend perform a curated mix of her greatest hits, emotional ballads, and prideful statements.
Carey’s appearance marked her long-awaited debut at Brighton Pride, after her originally scheduled performance in 2020 was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But if there was ever a way to make up for lost time, this was it.
Making a Statement: Fashion with Purpose
When the Grammy-winning vocalist took to the stage, all eyes were on her shimmering mini dress in the hues of the transgender Pride flag—baby blue, soft pink, and white. The dazzling ensemble, covered in rhinestones, immediately sent a clear message of solidarity and support for trans people.
Adding to her powerful look, Carey wore a custom-designed pink bomber jacket bearing the words “Protect The Dolls” spelled out in sparkling rhinestones across the back. The phrase, coined by fashion designer Conner Ives, has become a rallying cry for protecting and uplifting transgender women—affectionately referred to as “the dolls”—in an increasingly hostile political climate.
Earlier this year, the phrase gained viral traction after being sported by celebrities such as Pedro Pascal, Tilda Swinton, and Troye Sivan. Ives, who created the campaign as a form of creative resistance, has raised thousands for transgender charities through the sale of these garments.
For Carey, who’s long embraced her LGBTQ+ fan base, the jacket was more than just a fashion statement—it was a symbol of unwavering support.
A Message From the Heart
Midway through her 90-minute set, Carey took a moment to speak directly to the crowd, acknowledging the deep and enduring relationship she shares with her LGBTQ+ fans.
“You’ve been here for me for so long, supported me through good times and bad,” she said, before launching into an emotional rendition of her 1993 chart-topper “Hero.” “I just wanted you to know—I’ll always be there for you.”
The words sparked roars of approval from the audience, many of whom waved rainbow flags, cheered, and sang along through tears. On social media, fans praised the singer’s speech as “genuine,” “goosebump-inducing,” and “a moment for the history books.”
Carey continued the lovefest by performing hits spanning her storied 35-year career, including fan favorites like “Fantasy,” “Touch My Body,” “Obsessed,” and of course, “We Belong Together.” Each track brought its own wave of nostalgia, joy, and pride.
Showing Love Beyond the Stage
Shortly after the show, Carey took to social media to thank the LGBTQ+ community once again, sharing a heartfelt message with her millions of followers.
“A special heartfelt thank you to the LGBTQ+ community for your ongoing support,” she wrote. “I will always be there for you.”
Her message quickly racked up tens of thousands of likes, with fans around the world expressing gratitude for her continued advocacy and love.
A Long-Awaited Moment
Carey’s Brighton Pride appearance was five years in the making. Originally scheduled to headline in 2020, her performance was postponed due to the global pandemic. This year’s show was widely considered one of the most highly anticipated in the event’s history—and for many fans, it was well worth the wait.
“I’ve waited half a decade for this moment,” said Jake, a fan from Manchester who traveled to Brighton just to see her. “She didn’t just deliver—she made us feel seen, loved, and celebrated.”
Queuing Controversy Casts a Shadow
Despite the high-energy performance and emotional highs, the event was not without its logistical hiccups. Attendees reported significant delays and overcrowding at the entrance to Preston Park, with some describing the experience as “chaotic,” “overwhelming,” and even “traumatic.”
Social media was quickly flooded with posts from frustrated festivalgoers who claimed they waited up to three hours to enter the venue. Some users shared images of the long lines snaking through the streets, while others called out organizers for a lack of communication and crowd control.
In response, Brighton Pride organizers issued a public apology late Saturday evening.
“We are very sorry for the delays to entry to Pride on the Park and Pride Street Party on Saturday, and apologize for the longer-than-expected wait times,” the statement read. “We thank everyone for their patience on such a busy day and are working to make improvements.”
By Sunday, adjustments were made to streamline entry, and many attendees noted a noticeable difference.
“It was a million times better today,” one person wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Shame about yesterday, but glad they listened and acted quickly.”
A Pride to Remember
Despite the rocky start, Mariah Carey’s headlining set will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of Brighton Pride’s 2025 celebration. Her blend of musical brilliance and meaningful advocacy created a space where queer joy, love, and resilience could truly shine.
From a glittering dress in trans colors to a powerful message of allyship, Carey didn’t just perform—she showed up. Loud, proud, and unapologetically in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
And if her words are anything to go by, she’s not going anywhere.
