Beyoncé showed a rare glimpse of raw emotion as she accepted an award alongside her husband Jay Z that she dedicated to her late uncle.
The iconic singer broke down as she spoke for the first time about losing her uncle Johnny to a HIV-related illness, admitting it was 'one of the most painful experiences of my life'.
Her voice cracked during the heartfelt speech as she explained how Johnny had helped raise her and sister Solange, describing him as 'the most fabulous gay man I have ever met'.
Bey and Jay attended the GLAAD awards at the 30th annual event to accept a vanguard award for LGBTQ advocacy with the powerful speech that received a standing ovation.
Beyonce and Jay Z 'bow down' to pregnant Meghan Markle at BRITs during speech
As Beyoncé delivered a flawless speech she was comforted by Jay who gently rubbed her back while she spoke of her beloved uncle.
"He lived his truth and was brave and unapologetic at a time when this country wasn't as accepting.
"Witnessing his battle with HIV was one of the most painful experiences I've ever lived... I'm hopeful that his struggle served to open pathways for other young people to live more freely."
She added, "LGBTQIA rights are human rights", to rapturous applause and cheering from the audience as she continued.
Beyoncé’s make-up artist shares beauty secrets all women should know
She said: "To choose who you love is your human right. How you identify and see yourself is your human right. Who you make love to and take that ass to Red Lobster is your human right."
The audience laughed and cheered at the humour as she finished: "I love you and for this I am grateful. Thank you."
Bey had joked as they arrived on stage that she had already cried once because she'd run a hole in her tights from dancing to drag queen Shangela, who put on an incredible tribute performance of all Bey's iconic tracks .
Jay also spoke, paying tribute to his mum Gloria, who a special recognition award at last year's ceremony, for allowing him to tell her story of coming out on his track Smile from his album 4:44.
Bey also spoke about reminding people they are loved and are beautiful: "We’re here to promote love for every human being and change starts with supporting the people closest to you.
"So let’s tell them they are loved, let's remind them they are beautiful, let’s speak out and protect them and parents let's love our kids in their truest form."
Bey later acknowledged their award in a series of posts on Instagram .
Disney's Lion King trailer and poster released during Oscars - echoing 1994 film
Posing in the same black oversized blazer and no bra she wore to the event, Beyoncé stood alongside her husband who looked equally dapper in a cream tuxedo and black bowtie.
Their coordinating suits echoes a similar look they chose to Beyonce and Jay Z 'bow down' to pregnant Meghan Markle at BRITs during speech .
Given the best group as The Carters the couple stood in front of a painting of Meghan Markle as Mona Lisa.
Writing in honour of Black History month that they said they would "bow down to one of our Melanated Monas" and congratulated her on her pregnancy.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033
