CNN anchor Anderson Cooper accepted GLAAD’s annual Vito Russo Award last night at a star-studded ceremony in New York. Introduced by Madonna—whom he gave a big uncharacteristic smooch to—Cooper was modest in his acceptance speech, saying he felt he “not worthy of it.”
“I am only here tonight because I’ve benefited from what they and so many others have done,” he said, citing activists like Russo and Larry Kramer.” Cooper also reiterated that he felt being gay was “one of the greatest blessings” of his life, explaining how “it’s opened my head and heart in ways that I never could have predicted.”
In a speech that had the crowd on its feet, Cooper ended by saying, “I thank God every day for being able to love my friends, my family and my partner, Benjamin [Maisani].”
Video: Boy Culture