Matt Cain

Matt Cain is a celebrated writer, broadcaster, and influential LGBTQ+ speaker who has spent decades championing inclusivity and diversity through his work. Born in Bury and raised in Bolton, he pursued a stellar education at state schools before earning a place at Cambridge University. Known for his charisma and eloquence, Matt has become a sought-after voice on LGBTQ+ issues, often addressing audiences with a message of resilience, self-acceptance, and pride. His varied career and personal journey make him an inspirational figure in both the literary and LGBTQ+ communities.

Matt began his career producing and directing arts and entertainment programmes for ITV, where he worked on acclaimed projects such as Freddie Mercury: A Kind of Magic and The South Bank Show. His talent and passion led to his ground-breaking role as Channel 4’s first Culture Editor, where he earned praise for insightful coverage of prestigious cultural events and interviews with icons like Grayson Perry and the Spice Girls. In 2016, Matt became Editor-in-Chief of Attitude magazine, where he launched the popular #AttitudeHeroes podcast and collaborated with high-profile figures, such as Sam Smith and Kylie Minogue, while tackling important issues like HIV prevention and international homophobia.

In recent years, Matt has made waves as an author. His third novel, ‘The Madonna of Bolton’, became Unbound’s fastest-crowdfunded title, supported by global pledges and celebrity endorsements after being rejected over 30 times due to its LGBTQ+ themes. His subsequent works, including ‘The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle’ and ‘Becoming Ted’, have cemented his reputation as a bold and heartfelt storyteller. In 2024, his short novel ‘Game On’ became an official title for World Book Night. Matt’s achievements have been recognised with numerous honours, including an MBE in 2025 for services to LGBTQ+ culture, an honorary doctorate from the University of Bolton, and the Elli’s Rainbow Award.

Matt Cain is in high demand as an LGBTQ+ speaker due to his exceptional storytelling, personal insights, and dedication to promoting inclusivity. Audiences are drawn to his ability to weave his professional expertise with his lived experience, making his message both compelling and profoundly impactful.