Greg Berlanti Accepts Social Impact Award at Teens and Screens Summit
Greg Berlanti was honored with the inaugural Greg Berlanti Social Impact Award at the UCLA Center for Scholars and Storytellers‘ annual Teens and Screens Summit in Los Angeles. Berlanti, known for his work as a writer, director, producer, and showrunner on projects like “Love, Simon,” “Dawson’s Creek,” “Riverdale,” “You,” and the CW’s “Arrowverse,” delivered a moving acceptance speech that reflected on his journey towards self-acceptance and the importance of creating inclusive and representative storytelling.
In his speech, Berlanti spoke about the power of storytelling to heal old wounds and connect people on a universal level. He shared his own experiences growing up as a closeted gay teenager and the lack of LGBTQ representation on television at the time. Berlanti recalled a pivotal moment at an AIDS march in New York City where he saw positive representation of queer people for the first time but struggled to accept it due to fear and shame. Over time, he found the courage to come out and embrace his true self.
One of the most poignant moments of the event came when Berlanti screened “Love, Simon” in Olathe, Kansas, and a 14-year-old boy publicly came out after the screening, thanking Berlanti for creating shows and movies that made him feel less alone. This moment served as a second chance for Berlanti to embrace acceptance and connection, symbolized by the boy reaching out his hand to shake Berlanti’s.
Berlanti’s writing partners, Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson, introduced the award and praised Berlanti for his heartfelt and diverse storytelling that resonates with audiences on a deep level. Actress Molly Ringwald, who starred in “Riverdale,” compared Berlanti to iconic filmmaker John Hughes, highlighting his contributions to shaping modern portrayals of adolescence with a focus on representation and diversity.
The Teens and Screens Summit focused on the impact of media on Gen-Z Americans, with a particular emphasis on the preferences and consumption habits of young audiences. The event featured panels and discussions with media executives, content creators, and academics, including a panel where teenagers shared their perspectives on storytelling and media consumption.
Berlanti emphasized the importance of listening to young voices and creating content that reflects their diverse experiences and identities. He highlighted the role of storytelling in fostering empathy, self-worth, and a sense of belonging for young audiences, ultimately giving hope for a brighter future shaped by the next generation.
The Summit provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of media consumption and highlighted the need for authentic and inclusive storytelling that resonates with young audiences. Berlanti’s acceptance of the Social Impact Award underscored his commitment to creating meaningful and impactful content that connects people and promotes acceptance and understanding.
