2024 American Black Film Festival Honors Celebrates Black Hollywood’s Finest

Ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, Black Hollywood hosted its own celebration on Sunday (Mar. 3) at the 6th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors.

Taraji P. Henson and Jeffrey Wright received the Excellence in the Arts Award for their respective, distinguished careers. Garrett Morris was awarded with the Hollywood Legacy Award, which is presented to “a trailblazing artist whose work (four decades or more) has inspired generations and made an enduring contribution to film and television.”

Mara Brock Akil received the Industry Visionary Award for being a trendsetting creator “in recognition of their outstanding work and commitment to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the motion picture and television industry through their work” while Kelvin Harrison Jr. was named this year’s Rising Star.

The lavish affair was hosted by Tommy Davidson.

Presenters included Tyrese, Wendell Pierce, Lamorne Morris, Leslie Jones, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Issa Rae, with David Oyelowo presented Cord Jefferson with the win for Movie Of The Year for American Fiction. Nominees included A. V. Rockwell’s A Thousand And One, Ava DuVernay’s Origin, Blitz Bazawule’s The Color Purple, Juel Taylor’s They Cloned Tyrone, and Antoine Fuqua’s The Equalizer 3.

“For decades, these esteemed ABFF Honorees have elevated their projects, and brought joy to audiences across the world,” said NICE CROWD CEO and President Jeff and Nicole Friday in a joint statement. “It is our honor to recognize Garrett, Taraji, Jeffrey, Mara [and Kelvin] for all their contributions to culture and the industry throughout their remarkable careers. We look forward to celebrating their many achievements and gathering with our fantastic ABFF partners.”

The ABFF Honors is part of the American Black Film Festival, founded by Jeff Friday in 1997. Since its inception, ABFF has been one of the leaders in spotlighting and prioritizing Black storytelling. The festival takes place June 12-16. Check out the highlights from the 2024 ABFF Honors below.