In a powerful celebration of queer representation, comedian and writer Harper Steele has been named the Celebrity Grand Marshal for San Francisco Pride, marking another milestone in her remarkable personal and professional journey.

Steele, a former Saturday Night Live head writer with a three-decade friendship with Will Ferrell, gained national attention through their Netflix documentary “Will & Harper” - a poignant exploration of friendship, transition, and understanding. After coming out as trans at 60, Steele has become a vibrant symbol of authenticity and resilience.

Her professional comedy credentials are impressive: 13 years at SNL, creative director for Funny or Die, and co-writer of comedic projects like “The Spoils of Babylon” and “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga”. But her recent work transcends comedy, focusing on visibility and connection.

The documentary “Will & Harper” captured a transformative road trip, showcasing how genuine friendship can bridge understanding. The film earned critical acclaim, winning the GLAAD Media Award for Best Documentary and highlighting the complex experiences of trans individuals across different American communities.

San Francisco Pride’s executive director Suzanne Ford emphasized Steele’s significance, stating that her story represents “authenticity, imagination, and connection” - core values of the LGBTQ+ community. Steele will appear in this year’s Pride Parade on June 29, alongside other remarkable grand marshals like activist Kenan Arun and trans health advocate Jahnell Butler.

This year’s Pride theme, “Queer Joy Is Resistance,” perfectly encapsulates Steele’s journey - transforming personal truth into a powerful statement of visibility and celebration.

As Steele herself noted when coming out, sometimes just existing can be a political act. Her presence at Pride symbolizes not just personal triumph, but a broader movement of understanding, acceptance, and love.