The Nanny star is hosting the Love is Love Gay Marriage Contest in the Big Apple on 6 March (12) in a bid to highlight the importance of same-sex equality, and she has obtained her minister license so she can properly preside over a few ceremonies.

She says, "I'm proud to be an American and I admire our constant strive towards liberty, justice, and equality for all. It is our duty to recognise that injustice exists and shift national consciousness to correct that injustice.

"Marriage equality is our opportunity to uphold our constitutional values, to stretch beyond our comfort zone and mature into a better version of ourselves. It is only by example that we may continue to be a beacon of freedom for the rest of the world. This is a no brainer, people; after all…love is love."

Fans wishing to be formally married by Drescher can submit an essay detailing their love story on Facebook.com and the actress will select the best candidates.

Drescher launched the campaign on Valentine's Day (14Feb12).

The topic is especially personal to the TV star - she separated from her husband of 18 years, producer Peter Marc Jacobson, in 1996 after he 'came out' as a gay man.

In June (11), New York became the sixth state in America to allow gay unions.