Thursday, March 28, 2024

BET, American Black Film Festival to Produce ‘ABFF Awards’

Regina King, Don Cheadle*In response to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, the American Black Film Festival and BET are launching the first annual “ABFF Awards: A Celebration of Hollywood.”

The show will air on the network and Centric on Feb. 23, and will celebrate black culture, individuals, films and television shows of the last year.

The ceremony will also recognize those who advocate for diversity in Hollywood. Comedian Mike Epps will host the taped event Sunday, Feb. 21 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.

President of Programming, BET Networks, Stephen Hill stated, “It’s clear that there’s a need for this show. BET is very excited to partner with Jeff and ABFF to present ‘A Celebration of Hollywood.’ We will unabashedly acknowledge performances and achievements of African-Americans on screen from this past year and give special honor and recognition to artists that have thrilled us during their highly acclaimed careers. 2015 was ripe with tremendous and inspiring performances by African-Americans and we are beyond thrilled to be the ones to recognize them with class and admiration.”

As L.A. Times notes, the show will honor Regina King (“American Crime”) and Don Cheadle (“House of Lies”), who are receiving Excellence in the Arts awards, as well as director Ryan Coogler (“Creed”), who is receiving the Rising Star award. Actress Diahann Carroll (“Julia”) and producer Will Packer (“Straight Outta Compton”) will also be recognized for their lifelong contributions to Hollywood.

ABFF Founder and CEO, Jeff Friday stated, “Twenty years ago, I created the American Black Film Festival to spotlight the rich diversity of talent and achievement. It was born out of my love for film and desire to ensure that Black people gained opportunity and equity in every arena of Hollywood. I am truly honored to partner with BET to showcase the work of our most talented artists.”

The 2016 ABFF Awards will air Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. on BET and Centric.

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