By Peter.
Grace Richardson, a 20-year-old musical theatre student from Leicester, has been crowned Miss England 2025 — becoming the first openly gay woman to ever win the title in the pageant’s 97-year history.
The historic win came on Friday, November 21, 2025, after a nail-biting final that ended in a tie-breaker, ultimately decided by Richardson’s electrifying singing and dancing performance.
Speaking after her victory, an emotional Richardson told reporters:
“I’m in complete shock. I feel so powerful and proud of myself. My coming-out story wasn’t the easiest. I faced a lot of homophobic bullying at school — especially from boys who targeted me for my sexuality and for being ‘too skinny.’ It’s important for young LGBTQ+ people to see themselves represented in all walks of life — including pageantry. I haven’t seen anyone talk about sexuality in this space the way I have, so I hope they feel seen.”
Richardson came out publicly on TikTok five years ago at age 15. While her family and close friends were supportive, she endured relentless bullying from classmates.
She will now represent England at the Miss World 2026 competition.
A Milestone for LGBTQ+ Visibility in Pageantry
Richardson’s win adds to a growing wave of inclusivity in beauty pageants worldwide:
- 2021: Lehlogonolo Machaba – first trans woman in Miss South Africa
- 2025: Nguyen Huong Giang – first trans woman to represent Vietnam at Miss Universe
Organizers hailed Richardson’s talent and authenticity, with Miss England posting on Instagram: “Grace’s show-stopping performance sealed the crown in an unforgettable tie-breaker!”
Congratulations, Grace — a true trailblazer! 🏆🌈
#MissEngland2025 #GraceRichardson #LGBTQHistory #FirstOpenlyGayMissEngland #MissWorld2026v
