Supply: Leon Bennett / Getty
The 18th annual Essence Black Ladies in Hollywood Awards has at all times proudly and unapologetically celebrated the attractive melanin populating the leisure trade. Nevertheless, this yr’s occasion was significantly particular given the latest anti-DEI assaults.
The star-studded occasion, held on Thursday, Feb. 27, on the Fairmont Century Plaza Lodge in Los Angeles, celebrated the Black ladies making strikes, shaking tables, and breaking limitations all through the worlds of tv and movie.
This yr’s honorees included 2025 Academy Award nominee Cynthia Erivo, singer-actress Teyana Taylor, legendary actress Marla Gibbs, and writer-executive producer Raamla Mohamed.
Moments We’re Nonetheless Speaking About From The Essence Black Ladies In Hollywood Awards
Supply: Robin L Marshall / Getty
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Erivo, on the heels of a standout yr along with her critically praised flip within the box-office smash Depraved alongside Ariana Grande, was honored on the occasion by fellow actress Keke Palmer.
Taylor obtained her flowers from actress Niecy Nash-Betts, whereas Issa Rae took the stage and bestowed Mohamed along with her award.
Supply: Leon Bennett / Getty
Honoring the decades-long profession of Gibbs was Tichina Arnold, who highlighted the actress’ groundbreaking and scene-stealing profession in tv for over 50 years.
Tyra Banks, who broke limitations in each the worlds of trend and leisure, was introduced with this yr’s Essence Luminary Highlight Award. The inaugural award “acknowledged her journey of resilience, longevity, and vital impression on the trade,” per the outlet.
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Pleasure-Ann Reid Receives A Standing ‘O’ At The Essence Black Ladies In Hollywood Occasion
The shock of the night occurred when anchor and political correspondent Pleasure Reid opened the awards ceremony with a passionate speech in regards to the significance of range, fairness and inclusion.
Reid, who was ousted from MSNBC earlier this week after her present The Reid Out was abruptly canceled, expressed her appreciation for the entire outpouring of help she has obtained.
Supply: Robin L Marshall / Getty
“I’ve to say that I’ve by no means felt extra enveloped and wrapped within the love of my individuals,” Reid mentioned. “It makes me really feel so full. My coronary heart is full. I simply love, love, love my individuals. And so I simply wish to thank everybody. I wish to thank Win With Black Ladies, who held a 25,000-person Zoom name final Sunday, and simply everybody who has proven me a lot help.”
Founding father of Ladies With Black Ladies, Jokada Eaddy, additionally made a transferring tribute to the victims of the California wildfires. Whereas talking, she make clear the minority communities of Altadena and Pasadena.
Different celebrities in attendance included Taraji P. Henson, Zoe Kravitz, Tia Mowry, Anthony Anderson, Storm Reid, Meagan Good, Danielle Brooks and Natasha Rothwell.
Followers can get an up-close have a look at the occasion on Monday, March 3. The awards pre-show can be posted to the official Essence YouTube channel.
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