Onlookers watch the LA Pride Parade make its way along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood in 2018. Photo: Jon Viscott/City of West Hollywood.
George Takei, wrestler Cassandro El Exotico and Los Angeles fire Chief Kristin Crowley will serve as grand marshals for the LA Pride Parade.
Takei is the “Icon Grand Marshal.”
As an actor, Takei is perhaps best known for playing Hikaru Sulu in the original “Star Trek” series and films.
Takei also is an activist for social justice and LGBTQ+ causes.
“To be recognized in this way by the LGBTQ+ community, an extraordinary group of individuals who have fought tirelessly for equality, is truly overwhelming,” Takei said in a statement.
“As someone who has witnessed the struggles and triumphs of our community over the years, I am filled with gratitude for the progress we have made and inspired to continue the fight for full acceptance and equality for all,” he said.
George Takei’s life on display at Japanese American National Museum
Cassandro El Exotico is the “Legacy Grand Marshal.”
Born Saul Armendariz, he’s a professional wrestler in Mexico known for breaking barriers in the world of lucha libre by embracing his gay identity in the ring.
The film “Cassandro,” starring Gael Garcia Bernal, tells his lifestory and was released last year.
Crowley will serve as the “Community Grand Marshal.”
She was named Los Angeles Fire Department chief in March 2022, achieving three firsts: first woman, first lesbian, and first member of the LGBTQ community to hold the position.
ABC7 will broadcast the 54th annual LA Pride Parade June 9 at 11 a.m.
The coverage will be hosted by Ellen Leyva and “Good Morning America” weekend co-anchor Gio Benitez, with David Gonzalez, Sophie Flay, and Karl Schmid reporting from the parade route.
The parade will step off at Sunset Boulevard and Highland Avenue, heading north, then east onto Hollywood Boulevard, then south onto Cahuenga Boulevard, ending at Sunset and Cahuenga boulevards.
After the parade, the LA Pride Block Party will commence on Hollywood Boulevard with drag shows, live music, DJ sets, pickle ball. More than 65 booths of vendors, community groups, and nonprofits will be on site.
Beer gardens, 13 food trucks, and pop-up bars also will be at the block party.
Ricky Martin will headline Pride in the Park on June 8.
