Madonna to present Anderson Cooper with GLAAD Award

Category: Latest International Created on Tuesday, 05 March 2013 10:10 Written by Robert Manser

Madonna will present Anderson Cooper with the Vito Russo Award at the 24th Annual GLAAD Media Awards.

She will will appear with the journalist, author and talk show host on March 16 at the Awards ceremony in New York, presented nationally by Ketel One Vodka and Wells Fargo. Cooper and Madonna are longtime friends who have both used their careers to raise support for LGBT people around the globe.

"Madonna has been a passionate spokesperson and longtime supporter of gay rights. She has embraced LGBT people around the world on many occasions," said Herndon Graddick, President of GLAAD - the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Again Defamation.

"From speaking out against bullying to raising support for marriage equality, Madonna has always been one of our community's strongest allies. We are honored to have her stand with GLAAD and Anderson Cooper."

GLAAD will honor Cooper with the Vito Russo Award at the New York event. The Vito Russo Award is presented to an openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality.

Previous honorees include Ricky Martin, Rosie O'Donnell, and Elton John. The Award takes its name from legendary HIV/AIDS activist Vito Russo, who was also one of GLAAD's founders.