In a moment that resonated with queer gamers everywhere, voice actor Jennifer English took the stage at the Golden Joystick Awards and delivered a powerful acceptance speech, dedicating her win for Best Lead Performer to the power of “queer joy.”
English, beloved by many in the community for her role as Shadowheart in the massively popular Baldur’s Gate 3, won the prestigious award for her upcoming lead role as Maelle in the highly anticipated RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Visibly emotional, English expressed her shock and gratitude before sharing a deeply personal story that connected her professional success to her personal journey of authenticity.
A Triumph of Authenticity
“Maelle embarks on this crazy journey,” English explained, referring to her character. “She chooses to leave a life that wasn’t serving her. And I did that a few years ago. And I chose, instead, a life that was authentic, a life that was gay.”
Her words drew cheers from the audience as she continued, “I fell in love with a beautiful woman who’s crying her eyes out right now – it’s really funny. And I chose queer joy. As a result of that queer joy, I felt safe enough to pour my grief, and pain, and all that nonsense – and joy, and love – into this incredibly beautifully written character.”
“I am so proud of that, and I just want to thank queer joy for that,” she concluded.
The award was presented by her Baldur's Gate 3 castmate Samantha Béart (the voice of Karlach), who proudly declared, “Karlach approves,” creating a heartwarming moment of solidarity between the two actors.
From Faerûn to the Future
While the award was for Clair Obscur, English’s connection with the LGBTQ+ gaming community was solidified through her role as the cleric Shadowheart in Baldur's Gate 3. The game has been praised for its inclusive and nuanced queer representation, and English has been a vocal supporter of its diverse fanbase.
In her winning role, English voices Maelle, a young woman on a desperate quest to defeat a mysterious entity known as the Paintress, who erases people of a certain age from existence each year. The game, set for release in 2026, is a turn-based RPG with a unique, Belle Époque-inspired aesthetic.
English's win and her unapologetic speech serve as a significant moment for queer representation in the gaming industry, highlighting how embracing one's true self can fuel incredible creativity and lead to triumphant success.
