Orange is the New Black star Lea DeLaria to lead Manchester Pride

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

Orange is the New Black star Lea DeLaria will serve as Grand Marshal for Manchester Pride parade.

The actress, who plays fan favourite Big Boo on the series, revealed today she would be leading the parade through the city next Saturday (August 23).

DeLaria, who was the first openly gay comic to perform on television in America, has also appeared on Will and Grace and Friends.

Mark Fletcher, Chief Executive of Manchester Pride, said: “We’re excited that Lea will be leading this year’s parade through Manchester City Centre. We’ve loved watching her in Orange is the New Black.

“Not only is she an incredible performer but she’s an inspiration for the global LGBT community. We know she’ll bring her unique charm and personality to really get the crowd going and kickstart the parade with a bang.”

Austrian Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst and US singer Anastacia were announced last month as the headliners for the Pride festival, which stretches across the weekend, from 22-25 August.

All Saints, Neon Jungle, Foxes are also on the line-up for the annual event, alongside former X Factor contestants Marcus Collins, Lucy Spraggan and Rowetta, and British four-piece girl group Neon Jungle.

Tickets for the entire Pride weekend cost £22. Day tickets start at £12.50.

The Pride festival released 300 day tickets for the Big Weekend, available to Greater Manchester residents who are undergoing financial hardship.