Darren Bell

“It’s been the most profound privilege of my career to be Editor of Gay Times Magazine. Today I have made the decision to step down and depart the company, almost five years after first joining the organisation. 

Serving the LGBTQ community and being at the helm of the biggest overhaul the magazine has seen in its 45 year history was a daily challenge that helped me grow both personally and professionally. 

During my time, I’ve ensured that we have put the community back at the heart of everything we do. It’s thanks to each and every one of you that have been brave enough to share your story, that the previously ignored became the subject in the spotlight. 

I’m immensely proud and grateful to leave a legacy that, I hope, serves all corners of the LGBTQ community. I look forward to seeing the continued success and future accomplishments of this historic publication, with the December 2019 issue serving as my last. 

I’d like to personally thank the incredible GAY TIMES team; Chairman James Frost and every collaborator and supporter from across the globe for your unwavering dedication, patronage and support. 

My next adventure is set to challenge, as with everything I do, and I can’t wait to share with you all what the future holds.”

William J Connolly
Editor, Gay Times Magazine
twitter.com/wjconnolly

“William stands down today as Editor of Gay Times Magazine. He leaves holding both the title of youngest serving Editor of the publication and leading the magazine through our historic Issue 500 celebrations.

His stewardship of the publication was unwavering. William carried Gay Times Magazine through, arguably, the greatest period of change experienced in our organisation. Against a backdrop of shuttering publishing houses, he brought new purpose to Gay Times Magazine alongside Chairman, James Frost, and received much community acclaim for his work.

He has achieved a number of firsts for Gay Times Magazine within the group. He ushered in a new era of increasingly diverse representation, bringing multiple people of the trans experience to the cover of the title, among other firsts.

The publication he leaves behind is truly transformed and although he was the first to feature many people from the LGBTQ initialism within the pages – his legacy means this will certainly continue for years to come.

We all wish William well for his future endeavours and will miss his consistent dedication and loyalty to the organisation.”

Tag Warner
CEO, GAY TIMES