Critics Choice Association Reveals Honorees for 7th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television in Los Angeles
The Critics Choice Association (CCA) has unveiled the full slate of honorees for the 7th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television. The star-studded gala will take place on December 9, 2024, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, celebrating excellence and innovation within the Black entertainment community. Hosted by actor and comedian Jay Pharoah, the event will be aired exclusively on STARZ in January 2025, with a wider broadcast on Nexstar stations in February during Black History Month.
Honorees and Awards
Tyler Perry, the acclaimed actor, filmmaker, and entrepreneur, will receive the Icon Award. Known for his prolific career spanning over two decades, Perry is being celebrated for his extensive contributions, including 24 feature films, 17 television series, and two bestselling books. His upcoming film, The Six Triple Eight, further cements his impact on the industry.
Malcolm D. Lee, the director behind hits such as Girls Trip and The Best Man, will be honored with the Career Achievement Award. This year marks the 25th anniversary of The Best Man, a film that launched one of Hollywood’s most successful franchises.
Regina King, an Oscar-winning actress and director, will receive the Trailblazer Award. King is being recognized for her powerful performances, including her work in Shirley, which tells the story of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black congresswoman and presidential candidate.
The Social Impact Award will go to Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor for her advocacy efforts and groundbreaking performances in films like Nickel Boys. Through her production company Miss Myrtis Films, Ellis-Taylor amplifies underrepresented voices.
Steve McQueen, the Oscar-winning director of 12 Years a Slave, will receive the Director Award for Blitz, which has earned him accolades at major film festivals, including the BFI London Film Festival.
Natasha Rothwell will be honored with the Producer Award for her work on Hulu’s How to Die Alone, which continues to break ground for diverse storytelling.
The Documentary Award will be presented to Angela Patton and Natalie Rae for their Netflix feature Daughters, which earned the Audience Award at Sundance.
Kris Bowers, known for his work on The Wild Robot, will receive the Composer Award for his innovative score in DreamWorks Animation’s latest hit.
In acting categories, Cynthia Erivo will receive the Actress Award – Film for her role in Wicked, while John David Washington is set to receive the Actor Award – Film for The Piano Lesson.
Television honors include Wendell Pierce, who will be recognized with the Actor Award – Series for his role in Elsbeth, and Michael Rainey Jr., who will receive the Rising Star Award – Series for Power Book II: Ghost.
Rising stars Ryan Destiny and Jharrel Jerome will also be celebrated. Destiny will be honored for her breakout role in The Fire Inside, and Jerome for his performance in Unstoppable.
A Celebration of Stories
Shawn Edwards, the executive producer and writer for the event, emphasized the importance of the stories being honored. “2024 was an exceptional year,” said Edwards. “This event is a celebration of the power of stories that shape our culture and society.”