Boy George Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at British LGBT Awards

Boy George received a lifetime achievement award at the British LGBT Awards on Thursday. The award was presented by French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier during the ceremony in central London. Organisers said the honour recognised the singer's contribution to British musical culture. The 64-year-old also won the music artist of the year award, beating Charli XCX and Doja Cat.

Speaking after the ceremony, Boy George told the BBC the award was a genuine surprise. He said he felt emotional while sitting with friends and described the presentation by Jean Paul Gaultier as very special. He noted that Gaultier had attended his performances in Paris and London throughout his career.

Boy George, whose real name is George O'Dowd, is known for the 1980s hit Karma Chameleon. He has been recognised for challenging gender stereotypes in fashion during the 1980s. The British LGBT Awards have been held annually since 2014 and are attended by celebrities, campaigners and allies.

This year's event was hosted by Ruby Wax and Tom Read Wilson. Other winners included Kate Winslet for an advocate award and Stephen Libby for media moment of the year.