Attitude Awards 2025: Luke Evans tells queer fans ‘you can be loved’ as he wins this year’s Book Award
He was celebrated for his memoir, Boy from the Valleys, which offers an intimate look at his upbringing in a Welsh mining village
By Callum Wells
Luke Evans has been recognised with The Book Award at the 2025 Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards, powered by Jaguar.
The Welsh actor and singer received the accolade at The Roundhouse in London tonight (8 October), presented by opera singer Katherine Jenkins.
He was celebrated for his memoir, Boy from the Valleys: My Unexpected Journey, which offers an intimate look at his upbringing in a Welsh mining village, his experiences growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, and his journey to becoming a Hollywood star.
In his memoir, Evans candidly discusses the challenges he faced reconciling his faith with his sexuality, his expulsion from the church, and his rise in the entertainment industry. The book has been praised for its honesty and insight into his personal and professional life.
“You can be seen. You can be loved. And you can live boldly happily and fully” – Luke Evans
During his winner’s speech ceremony, Evans shared his thoughts on receiving the award, saying, “To Attitude, thank you for this award – but more than that, thank you for standing up for our community, for celebrating our stories, and for reminding us that being ourselves is not only brave – it’s fucking beautiful.
“This award is for every kid who’s ever whispered their truth to themselves, hoping someone might one day hear it. You are not alone. You never were.
“And if my unexpected journey means anything… it’s that no matter where you come form – a little village, a Jehovah’s Witness background, a quiet, life, a closet – you can find your way to a stage like this to stand on one day. You can be seen. You can be loved. And you can live boldly happily and fully.”
The Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards, now in its 14th year, celebrates LGBTQ+ trailblazers and allies across music, TV, film, sport, and beyond. This year’s ceremony brought together stars and supporters from across the entertainment world.
Other winners already announced during tonight’s event include Dannii Minogue, Campbell Addy and Tom Allen.
Order your copy of the Attitude Awards issue now or check out the Attitude app.