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Singapore censors Obama’s LGBT comments on ‘Ellen’

a network in the city-state edits ‘Ellen’ broadcast for LGBT content

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(Screenshot courtesy of YouTube)

(Screenshot courtesy of YouTube)

According to Gay Star News, Obama’s segment congratulating DeGeneres on her role in gay rights progression was cut from the Feb. 23 broadcast on the channel.

DeGeneres thanked Obama for his dedication to LGBT rights in the episode, which originally aired on Feb. 14 in the U.S. Obama responded by thanking DeGeneres for the work she has done as a gay entertainment icon.

“As much as we’ve done with laws and ending ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ et cetera, changing hearts and mind…I don’t think anybody has been more influential than you on that,” Obama told DeGeneres who became teary eyed over the praise.

“You being willing to claim who you were, that suddenly empowers other people,” Obama continued. “And then suddenly, it’s your brother, it’s your uncle, it’s your best friend, it’s your co-workers. And then attitudes shift. And the law is followed, but it started with folks like you. I’m so proud of you.”

Gay Star News reports that in addition to Obama’s segment being censored, Michelle Obama wishing DeGeneres and wife Portia de Rossi Happy Valentine’s Day was also cut from the broadcast.

Channel 5 in Singapore is owned by Mediacorp, a government-owned broadcaster that controls seven television channels in the city-state.

Mediacorp caused controversy in the city-state when it hired Adam Lambert to perform during its on air New Year’s Eve celebration. The performer choice caused a petition for Lambert’s removal due to his “acts of indecency.”

 

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PHOTOS: Black Pride Opening Reception

Durand Bernarr headlines program

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Durand Bernarr performs at the 2026 DC Black Pride Opening Reception on Friday, May 22. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

The DC Black Pride Opening Reception was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Friday, May 22. Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr was the headline performer. Comedian Anthony Oakes was the host. Speakers included Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson and Center For Black Equity President Kenya Hutton, as well as speakers from health organizations and sponsors. The event featured performances from Billy the Goat, Jay Columbus, Akeem Woods, Rue Pratt, Be Steadwell and Bennu Byrd.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

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PHOTOS: Black Pride Pageant and Unity Ball

Back-to-back events held on first night of D.C. Black Pride

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The 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. (Washington Blade photo by Landon Schackelford)

The Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. Following the pageant, Black Pride events continued with the 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball.

(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)

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PHOTOS: Helen Hayes Awards

D.C.-area productions honored at Theatre Washington’s annual ceremony

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The 42nd Helen Hayes Awards were held at The Anthem on Monday, May 18. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Theatre Washington’s 42nd Helen Hayes Awards were held at The Anthem on Monday, May 18.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

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