LOS ANGELES (Nov. 19, 2008) – Academy Award®-nominated actress, Sigourney Weaver, and Lifetime Networks, one of the top-rated basic cable television networks, are set to be honored at Cracked Xmas, the 11th annual fundraising event benefiting The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. The event will be held on Sunday, Dec. 7 at The Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles.
Weaver, who has never hesitated to take roles that positively defy stereotypes and help bridge the gap between the straight and LGBTQ communities, will receive The Trevor Life Award. The Trevor Life Award annually honors an individual who, through his or her example, support, volunteerism and/or occupation, is an inspiration to LGBTQ youth. Actress Anne Hathaway of “Brokeback Mountain” and “The Devil Wears Prada” will present Weaver with the award. Past recipients include Ellen DeGeneres (2007), Debra Messing and Megan Mullally (2004) and Rosie O’Donnell (2003). Weaver’s roles in the films “Jeffrey” and “Infamous” demonstrate her support of diverse, inclusive films that convey messages of equality to broad audiences. Moreover, Weaver’s performance as Mary Griffith in the upcoming Lifetime original movie, “Prayers for Bobby,” drives home a message about the harmful and potentially life-shattering effects of intolerance and homophobia.
“I feel grateful and humbled to be honored with the Trevor Life Award, and to be recognized as an ally to the LGBTQ community,” said Weaver. “I hope that films such as ‘Prayers for Bobby’ will send messages of compassion and acceptance to all people, and compel them to create safer, all-encompassing environments for our young people.”
Lifetime Networks, a leader in women’s television that consistently produces and distributes relatable and diverse programming for its audiences, will receive The Trevor Hope Award. The Trevor Hope Award annually honors a company or organization that, through its policies, initiatives and other efforts, demonstrates a commitment to LGBTQ causes and is a prominent, public example of corporate acceptance of individuals regardless of sexual orientation. Past recipients include Clear Channel Communications (2007), HBO® (2006) and Wells Fargo (2004). Lifetime Networks’ groundbreaking, original movies such as “What Makes a Family,” “The Truth About Jane,” “A Girl Like Me: The Gwen Araujo Story” and “Prayers for Bobby” send messages of hope and encouragement to LGBTQ youth across the country.
“We are truly honored that The Trevor Project is recognizing our diverse, inclusive programming slate and our commitment to sharing stories that generate critical conversations and open doors to understanding and acceptance,” said JoAnn Alfano, executive vice president, entertainment at Lifetime Networks. “We believe in the mission of The Trevor Project and are proud to include real and positive representations of the LGBTQ community in our shows and original movies.”
“We are delighted to honor Sigourney Weaver and Lifetime Networks, since they both demonstrate the courage and conviction to break the barriers of stereotype and intolerance,” said Charles Robbins, executive director and chief executive officer, The Trevor Project. “Sigourney Weaver and Lifetime provide inspiration to young people and families who will see films such as ‘Prayers for Bobby’ and understand the importance of celebrating diversity and life.”
Cracked Xmas annually brings together top entertainers to help raise the financial resources necessary to fund The Trevor Project’s programs and services. Selma Blair, Leslie Jordan, Wanda Sykes and the cast of the Tony Award®-winning rock musical, “Spring Awakening,” are among guests scheduled to appear. The event’s presenting sponsor is WaMu.
About The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization that operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. The Trevor Helpline, 866-4-U-TREVOR, is a free and confidential service that offers hope through its trained counselors. The Trevor Project also provides lifesaving guidance and vital resources to parents and educators in order to foster safe, accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, at home and at school. The organization was founded by three filmmakers whose film, “Trevor,” about a gay teenager who attempts suicide, received the 1994 Academy Award® for Best Short Film (Live Action). For more information please visit TheTrevorProject.org .
