Alexi Kaye Campbell’s play The Pride and HBO hit True Blood were among the recipients of the 2011 GLAAD Media Awards, which recognize and honor media for their fair, accurate and inclusive representations of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and the issues that affect their lives. Bravo personality Andy Cohen hosted the New York City ceremony, which was held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel on March 19.
The award for Outstanding New York Theater: Broadway & Off-Broadway, went to The Pride, which was presented by MCC Theater starring Hugh Dancy, Andrea Riseborough, and Ben Whishaw. Harrison David Rivers took top honors for Outstanding New York Theater: Off–Off Broadway for his play When Last We Flew, and L. Trey Wilson’s Something Happened won the award for Outstanding Los Angeles Theater.
HBO hit True Blood won for Outstanding Drama Series, while Outstanding Individual Episode (in a serious without a regular LGBT character) went to 30 Rock episode "Klaus & Greta." Outstanding Music Artist went to Scissor Sisters their album “Night Work,” while Outstanding Newspaper Columnist went to Frank Rich of The New York Times.
As previously announced Ricky Martin, who will return to Broadway in next season’s revival of Evita, received the Vito Russo Award, presented to an openly LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equal rights for the LGBT community. Reverend Al Sharpton presented music impresario Russell Simmons with the Excellence in Media Award.
Additional awards will be presented in Los Angeles on April 10 and in San Francisco on May 14.