[3] In 2022, Michael was a contributor in BBC One's 'Tom Daley: Illegal to be Me' documentary, and was announced as the Host at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games for the swimming events.

When asked about his experiences,[16] he opened up around the bullying and hate messages he's received since coming out as gay, and his goals to support the LGBT community in the future.

[17] Gunning continually champions LGBTQ+ rights and mental health in sport,[18] and has spoken openly about both in multiple media publications.

[19] He also became a Kaleidoscope Trust Patron, alongside Tom Daley OBE, Munroe Bergdoff, Dustin Lance Black and Kyle De'Volle.

[20] During the Summer of 2022, Gunning officially opened Pride House Birmingham at the 2022 Commonwealth Games[21] and hosted the live swimming events at the Sandwell Aquatics Centre.