Human Rights Campaign honour for Manx actor

Joe Locke to be recognised at major US event this weekend

Manx actor Joe Locke is to be honoured by US advocacy group, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).

The 21-year-old is to receive HRC’s Impact Award for 'bringing meaningful LGBTQ+ stories and voices to audiences across the world'.

He's one of three stars set to be honoured on the night.

The Heartstopper star said: "I am so honoured to be recognized by the HRC in this way. 

"It’s been a joy and a privilege to be a part of telling LGBTQ+ stories and contribute to a world where everyone, regardless of who they are or who they love, can live authentically and without fear."

HRC President Kelley Robinson added: "I’m thrilled to be joined at this year’s dinner by such talented honourees who share a strong commitment to bringing LGBTQ+ visibility and storytelling to the forefront of entertainment and digital content spaces.

"Joe Locke, Lousia Jacobson and RaeShanda Lias unapologetically embrace their LGBTQ+ identities and show audiences that our existence, our voices and our experiences matter and must be heard and seen. 

"The advancements they’ve made for LGBTQ+ equality and representation have been invaluable and we are pleased to recognize their profound accomplishments at this critical turning point in the history of our movement."

Joe will be presented with the award at the 2025 HRC Greater New York Dinner, on Saturday (1 February) in New York City.

The event will also feature key speakers including the first openly transgender member of Congress in American history, Sarah McBride and actress, activist, producer and entrepreneur Sophia Bush alongside her partner, two-time World Cup champion football player, Ashlyn Harris.

A live auction will be hosted by comedian Dana Goldberg.