The former The Smiths star, who often provokes anger among critics for his blunt statements on animal rights issues, will be handed a lifetime achievement award from PETA at a special ceremony at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles in September (15).

Speaking after the news emerged on Wednesday (29Jul15), PETA boss Ingrid Newkirk said the singer deserves the award for being so outspoken and passionate about animal rights.

Newkirk tells WENN, "Morrissey is an envelope-pusher, a fiercely honest man who speaks his mind and calls out those who abuse and exploit animals for greed or take their lives for nothing more than a fleeting taste. PETA therefore believes that he deserves an award (from) an envelope-pushing group, and later this year, he will be getting one from PETA US."