Attitude Awards 2025: Luke Evans opens up about the ‘therapeutic’ process behind his emotional memoir (EXCLUSIVE)

Luke Evans has opened up about the emotional process behind his new memoir at the 2025 Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards, powered by Jaguar.

The Welsh actor and singer received The Book Award at The Roundhouse in London tonight (8 October), presented by opera singer Katherine Jenkins.

He was celebrated for 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.

“It brings up lots of weird feelings, but yeah, therapeutic” – Luke Evans on writing Boy from the Valleys: My Unexpected Journey

In the book, 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.

Speaking to Attitude on the red carpet, the Beauty and the Beast star reflected on how it felt to revisit old memories during the writing process.

When asked if it had been “therapeutic”, he replied, “I think it was. I mean, digging deep and trying to remember a very long time ago and things you remember that you thought you’d forgotten. It brings up lots of weird feelings, but yeah, therapeutic.”

He then quipped, “I mean, I’m glad I only had to do it once,” adding that he was “thrilled” to be recognised for his work.

Where can you order your copy of Attitude’s Awards Issue?

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.

Order your copy of the Attitude Awards issue now or check out the Attitude app.