Grace Richardson Becomes First Openly Gay Winner of Miss England

Grace Richardson, the 20-year-old winner of the Miss England title, has spoken about her decision to come out to the judges during the competition. Richardson won the title in November and is the first openly gay woman to hold it. She appears on The Independent’s Pride List 2026.

Richardson said she chose to disclose her sexuality because she wanted to be her authentic self rather than worry about outside opinions. She stated that choosing authenticity was the only way forward. “For me, choosing to be my authentic self was the only way forward.

If I had won and had to hide it, I don’t think I would have been as proud of myself as I am now,” Richardson said. Richardson also expressed concerns about competing at Miss World. She said the event could have been held in a country where her sexuality may not have been accepted or even legal.

The Independent reported her comments in connection with the Pride List feature.