For EastEnders legend Cheryl Fergison, championing a diverse array of LGBTQ+ storylines in soaps holds a very personal significance. Her son Alex is a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and his own coming out journey was not without difficulties. An advocate for equality since she herself was Alex's age, Cheryl 'embraced' her son fully when he first opened up about his sexuality, while she claims his father disowned him.
Proud ally Cheryl recently appeared at the inaugural Gaydio Awards, in Manchester, an event held to celebrate exceptional members of the LGBTQ+ community in various fields, from music to human rights.
Accompanied on the red carpet by Alex, Cheryl spoke with the Mirror about the role soaps have to play in educating audiences about marginalised communities, and what more needs to be done going forward.
