The Critics Choice Association's seventh annual Celebration of Black Cinema and Television is set to honor a remarkable lineup of industry luminaries, including Tyler Perry, Regina King, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, and Malcolm D. Lee. This prestigious event, hosted by actor and comedian Jay Pharoah, will shine a spotlight on the profound impact of Black storytelling in the entertainment landscape.

Honoring the Visionaries Who Redefine the Industry

Celebrating the Iconic Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry, the multifaceted powerhouse, will be presented with the prestigious Icon Award, recognizing his remarkable body of work. From his 24 feature films to his 20 stage plays and 17 television shows, Perry has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling, captivating audiences with his unique blend of humor, drama, and social commentary. His recent Netflix film, "The Six Triple Eight," which he wrote, directed, and produced, further solidifies his status as a true visionary in the industry. Beyond his creative endeavors, Perry has also established the 330-acre Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, a testament to his unwavering commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive narratives.

Recognizing the Career Achievements of Malcolm D. Lee

Malcolm D. Lee, the acclaimed writer-director, will be honored with the Career Achievement Award for his remarkable contributions to the industry. From the beloved "The Best Man" franchise, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, to his work on films like "Girls Trip," "Undercover Brother," and "Space Jam: A New Legacy," Lee has consistently delivered stories that resonate with audiences and push the boundaries of representation in Hollywood.

Celebrating the Trailblazing Regina King

Oscar and Emmy winner Regina King will receive the Trailblazer Award, recognizing her groundbreaking career. Most recently, King's portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in the Netflix biopic "Shirley" has captivated audiences, shedding light on the first Black Congresswoman and her historic presidential campaign in 1972. King's versatility and commitment to amplifying diverse narratives have solidified her status as a true icon in the industry.

Honoring the Passionate Advocacy of Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Oscar and Emmy nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will be recognized with the Social Impact Award for her unwavering dedication to social justice. As the founder and CEO of Miss Myrtis Films and the co-founder of Take it Down America, Ellis-Taylor has used her platform to advocate for meaningful change. Her powerful on-screen performances, including her work in Orion Pictures and Amazon MGM Studios' "Nickel Boys," Searchlight's "The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat," Netflix's "The Deliverance," and Roadside Attractions' "Exhibiting Forgiveness," have further cemented her status as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Celebrating the Diverse Talents of the Honorees

In addition to the esteemed honorees, the Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Black Cinema and Television will also recognize the achievements of other industry luminaries. Oscar winner Steve McQueen will be presented with the Director Award for his latest feature, Apple Original Films' "Blitz." Natasha Rothwell will receive two awards – the Producer Award for her Hulu series "How to Die Alone" and the #TakeTheLead prize from Starz, which is the media partner for the event. The special designation is intended to represent Starz's commitment to amplifying narratives by, about, and for women and underrepresented audiences.The documentary "Daughters," directed by Angela Patton and Natalie Rae, will be honored with the Documentary Award for its powerful exploration of a group of young girls preparing for a dance with their incarcerated fathers. Oscar winner and Emmy and Grammy nominee Kris Bowers will be recognized with the Composer Award for his work on Dreamworks Animation's "The Wild Robot."The film actor awards will go to Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner and Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo for her performance in Universal's "Wicked" and John David Washington for his starring role in Netflix's film adaptation of August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson." The series actor award will be presented to Wendell Pierce for his work on CBS' "Elsbeth."The Breakthrough Actor Award will be presented to Emmy and Critics Choice Award winner Jharrel Jerome for his performance in Amazon MGM Studios' "Unstoppable." The Rising Star Award for film will go to actor and musician Ryan Destiny for her work in Amazon MGM Studios' "The Fire Inside," while the corresponding Rising Star series award will be presented to Michael Rainey Jr. for his role in Starz' "Power Book II: Ghost."

Celebrating the Power of Black Storytelling

The Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Black Cinema and Television is a testament to the transformative power of Black storytelling in the entertainment industry. By honoring the trailblazers, visionaries, and rising stars who have consistently pushed the boundaries of representation and authenticity, this event serves as a celebration of the profound impact of Black cinema and television on our cultural landscape.As Shawn Edwards, the executive producer and writer for the ceremony, eloquently stated, "2024 was an exceptional year. There were so many great stories about the Black experience, and this event is a celebration of the power of those stories which have shaped and moved the entertainment industry. It's a true acknowledgment of the profound impact of Black Cinema and Television on today's culture and society."The Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Black Cinema and Television promises to be a captivating and inspiring event, shining a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable talents and contributions of the honorees. As the industry continues to evolve, this celebration serves as a testament to the enduring power of Black storytelling and its ability to transform and inspire audiences worldwide.