The 62nd Annual International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) Publicists Awards ceremony, held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, honored outstanding achievements in film and television publicity. Notable campaigns for "Wicked" and "Agatha All Along" were among the top winners, receiving accolades for their exceptional promotional efforts. The event also recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry, including Kathy Bates, who was awarded for her remarkable career in television. Additionally, several awards highlighted excellence in photography, journalism, and community service, underscoring the guild's commitment to both professional and societal impact.
This year's Maxwell Weinberg Awards for Motion Picture and Television Publicity Campaigns went to "Wicked" and "Agatha All Along," respectively. These honors were presented by TikTok influencer Juju Green and entertainment reporter Scott Mantz. The campaign for "Wicked," produced by Universal Pictures, showcased innovative strategies that captivated audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, "Agatha All Along," a collaboration between Marvel Television, Walt Disney Studios, and Disney+, demonstrated the power of effective storytelling through its publicity materials. Bill Mona from Disney received the Les Mason Award for Career Achievement in Publicity, celebrating his long-standing dedication to the craft. Rachael Roth, a unit publicist, was named Publicist of the Year, recognizing her outstanding work and leadership in the field.
Kathy Bates, known for her versatile performances on screen, accepted the Television Showperson of the Year Award. This honor acknowledged her impressive career spanning decades, culminating in her acclaimed role as the title character in CBS’s 2024 remake of "Matlock." Director Kat Coiro, who works closely with Bates on the series, introduced her during the ceremony. Bates expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the invaluable support she has received from publicists throughout her career. Her heartfelt speech resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of mentorship and guidance within the industry.
In addition to these prestigious awards, the ceremony celebrated excellence in various other categories. Chiabella James and Michele K. Short were recognized for their exceptional still photography in motion pictures and television, respectively. Perri Nemiroff from Collider and John Nugent from Empire Magazine (UK) were honored for their contributions to press and international media coverage. Ngoc Nguyen, a publicist dedicated to championing causes such as AAPI rights, women’s empowerment, and cancer research, received the Bob Yeager Award for Community Service. Tim Menke, a long-time chair of the ICG Publicists Awards, was awarded the Henri Bollinger Award for Special Merit, acknowledging his significant contributions to the industry.
The event concluded with remarks from ICG National Executive Director Alex Tonisson, who emphasized the guild's ongoing support for the "Keep California Rolling" campaign. This initiative, coordinated by the Entertainment Union Coalition, advocates for an expanded $750 million annual California Film & Television Jobs Program in the state's 2025-2026 budget. The ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the collective efforts of professionals committed to advancing the entertainment industry while making a positive impact on society.