2025 has been a year of epic entertainment, with LGBTQ+ talent in Ireland soaring particularly high.
From films to TV series to music – and everything in between – the entertainment gods have been smiling down on us here in Ireland. And, beyond making great art, this talented bunch have also been using their platforms in the best way possible – to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, both at home and abroad.
So, without further ado, here are the biggest Irish LGBTQ+ entertainment stories from 2025.
Gay comedian Gearóid Farrelly makes dazzling debut on Dancing with the Stars Ireland
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Our 2025 kicked off with a sparkly, sequin-studded start as gay comedian Gearóid Farrelly made his debut on Dancing with the Stars Ireland. Farrelly was partnered with professional dancer Stephen Vincent, making him the only celebrity to compete in a same-sex partnership for the 2025 edition.
Lola Petticrew criticises Irish governments’ treatment of trans youth in powerful IFTA speech
In February, Irish actor Lola Petticrew won the IFTA for their portrayal of Dolours in Say Nothing, a limited historical drama set during The Troubles. In their speech, Petticrew called out “gutless politicians” in the North and Republic for their treatment of trans youth, and for legitimising “war criminals”.
Queer comedian Rosie O’Donnell moves to Ireland following Trump re-election
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In March, legendary US comedian Rosie O’Donnell relocated to Dublin, citing the re-election of President Donald Trump as her reason for moving. Since then, Rosie has become a part of the Irish stand-up scene and has performed widely in Dublin.
Ireland’s first trans and non-binary film festival launches jam-packed programme
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March also saw the launch of TITE (Trans Image/Trans Experience), Ireland’s first-ever trans and non-binary film festival. TITE aims to shift the focus of trans cinema from representation to craft by championing trans and non-binary filmmakers and building connections between creators and audiences.
Nicola Coughlan raises over €76k for trans community following UK Supreme Court ruling
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Derry Girls star and trans ally Nicola Coughlan reaffirmed her support for the trans community in April, raising over €76,000 for Not A Phase, a charity committed to uplifting and improving the lives of trans people across the United Kingdom. The Irish actor kickstarted the fundraiser on Thursday, April 17, in response to the UK Supreme Court’s exclusionary ruling on the legal definition of ‘woman’.
Gay Irish designer Jonathan Anderson named Artistic Director of Dior menswear
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Derry-born Irish designer Jonathan Anderson was named Artistic Director of Dior menswear in April. In a subtle but symbolic Instagram post, Anderson confirmed the news by sharing a Dior label alongside a four-leaf clover, a quiet nod to his Irish roots.
GCN’s Roast of Panti Bliss delivers triumphant night of hilarious star-studded savagery
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National treasure Panti Bliss was the very willing subject of GCN’s first ever roast, which took place in the Abbey Theatre on May 4. Host Brendan Courtney was joined by a star-studded selection of roasters, including Tara Flynn, Katherine Lynch, Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, James Patrice, Davina Devine, Dizzy Dyin4it, Mr Pussy, Paul Ryder and Elaine Crowley.
SexyTadhg releases sultry new Irish language single
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One of the most exciting stars on the Irish music scene, SexyTadgh, released ‘Ceannasacht’, a sultry, jazz-infused single that reclaims the Irish language for queer identity in July. This year also saw SexyTadhg support The Mary Whollopers on tour, including a standout set at Dublin’s Fairview Park.
Bonnie Ann Clyde makes history as Republic of Ireland’s first Drag Race contestant
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Drag herstory was made in August after Bonnie Ann Clyde became the first ever contestant from the Republic of Ireland on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Bonnie, who hails from Dublin, was joined on the series by her Belfast sister, Elle Vosque.
CMAT releases new album EURO-COUNTRY and declares all her fans are “Irish or lesbians”
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Queer icon and pop megastar CMAT released her summer-defining album EURO-COUNTRY, its title track a blistering reflection on Celtic Tiger Ireland and the fallout of the recession. While promoting her album, CMAT made the bold declaration that her fanbase is composed of Irish people or queer women.
Gay scandal brews for iconic character in House of Guinness series
Netflix’s steamy Irish period drama House of Guinness landed on our telly screens in September. The show, which is loosely based on the family behind the Irish stout, featured a queer storyline through Anthony Boyle’s portrayal of Arthur Guinness.
CMAT and The Blessed Madonna share messages of solidarity with trans community
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Following comments made by Roisin Murphy about the trans community in October, Irish pop-star CMAT and American DJ The Blessed Madonna both issued passionate messages of solidarity for the trans community. CMAT also encouraged her followers to donate to TENI.
Irish comedian Madison Cawley launches new web series
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Speaking of entertainment, queer comedian and TikTok sensation Madison Cawley launched a brand new web series, Who Let Her Backstage?, in November 2025. Prior to the show’s launch, Cawley popped by GCN towers to give fans a sneak peek of what to expect.
We may be looking back on the biggest Irish LGBTQ+ entertainment stories from 2025, but rest assured, we will continue to bring our readers the very best in queer film, TV, music and more as we enter a new year.
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