From a BBC controversy over Pride badges to a drag queen turning demolished rainbow crossings into a fundraising success, here are four LGBTQ+ stories making headlines.
1. BBC accused of removing Pride badges from University Challenge
Two University of Leicester students have criticised the BBC after discovering their LGBTQ+ Pride badges had been digitally removed from an episode of University Challenge.
Samuel Carlier and Emmeline Hague-Wright said the decision was troubling, with Carlier describing it as “very Orwellian”.
The BBC defended its actions, explaining that editorial guidelines discourage visible badges, flags and symbols on programmes.
Read the full story at PinkNews
2. Drag queen raises $25,000 from demolished rainbow crossing
A Florida drag queen has raised more than $25,000 for LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations by selling bricks from a demolished rainbow pedestrian crossing.
Miss Bouvèé acquired the bricks after authorities removed the Miami Beach crossing in 2025 under state restrictions on road markings.
She restored and repainted the bricks before selling them as commemorative pieces, with the proceeds supporting Pride events and security in South Florida.
Read the full story at Attitude
3. Lesbian bar announces closure following controversy
A lesbian bar in Massachusetts has announced plans to close and is seeking new owners after months of financial difficulties and public controversy.
Last Ditch, which opened in 2025 as an inclusive LGBTQ+ community space, attracted widespread attention after relaxing its mandatory face-mask policy on Saturday nights.
The decision sparked criticism from some customers, while the business continued struggling financially.
Its closure highlights the difficulties facing independent queer venues trying to balance accessibility, community expectations and commercial survival.
Read the full story at Queerty
4. Nicki Minaj faces backlash over comments about transgender children
Rapper Nicki Minaj has renewed criticism of gender-affirming healthcare for transgender minors during a Republican campaign rally alongside President Donald Trump.
Speaking in Michigan on 25 October, Minaj opposed medical gender transitions for children and reiterated her support for Trump.
Her political appearances and comments about transgender healthcare have generated criticism from LGBTQ+ fans and fellow entertainers.
Read the full story at PinkNews
TheGayUK.com | LGBTQ+ News Roundup | 27 October 2026