AAFCA TV Honors 2025 Names Top Shows and Industry Giants
The African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) just dropped its winners list for the 7th Annual AAFCA TV Honors—and it’s a full-on celebration of excellence in Black storytelling. The awards will be handed out at a glam ceremony on August 23, 2025, at the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
This year’s winners include smash hits like “Forever” (Netflix), “Paradise” (Hulu), and “Matlock” (CBS), with all three shows scooping multiple honors. Among the big acting wins: Sterling K. Brown for his role in “Paradise” and Kathy Bates for her standout performance in “Matlock.”
Top Honors Go to ‘Forever,’ ‘Paradise’ and ‘Matlock’
“Forever” emerged as a major winner, taking home Best New Show, Best Writing, and Best Director for a powerhouse team that includes Anthony Hemingway, Thembi Banks, Mara Brock Akil, and Regina King. The show’s deeply emotional storytelling has struck a chord with viewers and critics alike.
“Paradise” won Best Drama and Best Actor for Sterling K. Brown, while “Matlock” picked up Best Actress (Kathy Bates) and Breakthrough Talent (Skye P. Marshall).
Other winners include “Harlem” (Best Comedy), “Bel-Air” (Best Ensemble), and “The Big Cigar” (Best Limited Series).
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Top 10 TV Shows of the Year Named
AAFCA also revealed its annual Top 10 TV Programs list, featuring a diverse mix of streaming hits and broadcast favorites. Here’s the full list:
- “Forever” (Netflix)
- “Paradise” (Hulu)
- “Cross” (Amazon Prime)
- “Harlem” (Amazon Prime)
- “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
- “Power Book: Raising Kanan” (Starz)
- “Dope Thief” (Apple TV+)
- “The Bear” (Hulu)
- “The Chi” (Paramount+ with Showtime)
- “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
2025 Special Honorees Celebrate Black Excellence in TV
The AAFCA TV Honors isn’t just about shows—it also salutes the people pushing the industry forward. This year’s Special Achievement Honorees include powerhouse executives, creatives, and legacy artists:
- Keith Le Goy, Sony Pictures TV Chairman – TV Vanguard Award
- Ayo Davis, Disney Branded TV President – Salute to Excellence
- Tina Perry, OWN TV President – Visionary Award
- Mara Brock Akil, Creator of “Girlfriends” & “Forever” – Legacy Award
- Michelle Buteau, Comedian and actress – Trailblazer Award
- Nneka Onuorah, Emmy-winning director – Horizon Award
- Denise Nicholas, actress and author – TV Icon Award
A Word from AAFCA President Gil Robertson
“Do not miss the winning programs and performances and AAFCA’s Top 10 TV shows of the year,” said AAFCA Co-Founder and President Gil Robertson. “This year’s honorees exemplify the solid, innovative leadership that is essential to moving the industry forward.”
He added that 2025’s honorees “are the heartbeat of the television industry,” especially as Hollywood recovers from the COVID pandemic and industry strikes.
Why the AAFCA TV Honors Matter
Since its launch seven years ago, the AAFCA TV Honors has grown into a must-watch awards event celebrating the evolving face of television. The ceremony highlights achievements by Black creatives and pushes the conversation forward about representation in media.
With this year’s winners and honorees, AAFCA proves once again that diverse voices are not only vital—but are also leading the way in storytelling, innovation, and impact. For more info: www.aafca.com.
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