Grace Richardson: Trailblazing as the First Openly Gay Miss England

Grace Richardson, a 20-year-old musical theater student from Leicestershire, has made history by becoming the first openly gay winner of the Miss England beauty pageant. The crowning took place on November 21, 2025, in Wolverhampton, England. Richardson expressed her joy and empowerment, stating that her victory is a testament to resilience and determination. She aims to use her platform to inspire younger generations, emphasizing that “with resilience and determination, you really can achieve your dreams.”

First Out Lesbian Wins Miss England CrownCNNRidiculed in high school, she became the first openly gay Miss EnglandPeople Magazine

During the competition, Richardson openly discussed her sexuality, a decision she initially contemplated withholding. However, during her interview with the judges, she chose to share her coming out story, which she described as a significant part of her personal journey. “When asked about overcoming challenges, my coming out story was the first that came to mind,” she recalled. Richardson hopes that her openness will encourage other women to speak out and normalize the presence of gay women in roles like hers.

First Out Lesbian Wins Miss England Crown

Richardson's journey has not been without difficulties. She began questioning her identity at the age of 14 and faced bullying at school after coming out. “Some people just really didn’t accept it,” she noted, recalling a year marked by mockery and isolation. Despite these challenges, she transformed her experiences into a source of strength, aiming to turn negativity into positivity through her platform.

Ridiculed in high school, she became the first openly gay Miss England

The Miss England competition has evolved to reflect changing societal values. Richardson praised the pageant for eliminating the traditional swimwear round in favor of a no-makeup round, highlighting the confidence of contestants. She believes this shift represents a broader commitment to authenticity and self-acceptance within the beauty industry.

Ridiculed in high school, she became the first openly gay Miss England

Grace Richardson is set to represent England at the Miss World pageant in 2026. This opportunity is particularly significant as she will compete alongside contestants from countries where homosexuality is still illegal. Despite the challenges, she expressed confidence in the support from both the Miss World organization and the Miss England organizers, stating, “They said, ‘Well, you’re proud of yourself and we are proud of you.’”

Ridiculed in high school, she became the first openly gay Miss England

While Richardson's win is celebrated, it also highlights ongoing challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals globally. Competing in an international arena poses risks, especially in regions where being openly gay can lead to severe repercussions. Critics may argue that her visibility could provoke backlash in less accepting cultures.

First Out Lesbian Wins Miss England Crown

• “It’s proved to me that with resilience and determination you really can achieve your dreams,” — Grace Richardson, Miss England 2025

CNN

• “Sexuality has no direct relevance to my role as Miss England, but talking openly helps normalize the presence of gay women in such roles,” — Grace Richardson

First Out Lesbian Wins Miss England Crown

• “When I was asked in my interview ‘Have you faced any challenges?’ I wanted to talk about it because I wanted to turn something negative into something positive.” — Grace Richardson, on discussing her challenges during the competition.

People Magazine

Grace Richardson's historic win as Miss England not only marks a personal achievement but also serves as a beacon of hope and representation for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

Ridiculed in high school, she became the first openly gay Miss England