Paige DeSorbo received Variety’s Courage Award for advocating for survivors of domestic violence and sharing her own experience publicly. In her acceptance speech, she said abuse can affect anyone and that speaking openly can help survivors feel less isolated and understand that what happened was not their fault.

DeSorbo said her cat, Daphne, helped her feel safe and cared for during recovery after she adopted her in 2024. She highlighted Purina’s Purple Leash Project, which supports pet-friendly shelters, arguing that survivors should not have to choose between escaping abuse and leaving behind an animal that provides comfort. She cited figures suggesting more than 12 million people experience domestic violence annually, including one in three women and one in four men.