Latest news with #2025AmericanBlackFilmFestival
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
ABFF 2025 Speaker Lineup Announced: Gabrielle Union, Jermaine Dupri, Ashanti, And More
The 2025 American Black Film Festival has revealed a star-studded lineup for this year's events. Kicking off in Miami Beach, Florida, on June 11, 2025, the multi-day experience is set to feature exclusive panels, screenings, and more. Guests at ABFF can expect conversations with industry-leading directors, producers, and talent, including Chris Paul, Jemele Hill, Gabrielle Union, Blair Underwood, Ashanti, Holly Robinson Peete, Rodney Peete, and Tyson Beckford. Also announced today are the Spotlight screenings, which include projects from Jermaine Dupri and Tyler Perry Studios, and as previously announced, Nia Long and Larenz Tate reflecting on Love Jones. Additionally, Netflix is set to present an exclusive glimpse into the creative synergy behind The Old Guard 2, releasing on July 2, with a special conversation featuring Director Victoria Mahoney and Actress KiKi Layne. The streamer will also host an insightful discussion with Forever showrunner, Mara Brock Akil In its 29th year, ABFF will also host BOB Talks (short for Black Owned Brands), an event dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurship. 'We're excited to return to Miami Beach with an inspiring lineup of cultural icons and changemakers for this year's Talk Series, Spotlight Screenings, and the debut of BOB Talks,' detailed NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday. Screening highlights include STARZ's Magic City: An American Fantasy documentary, followed by a conversation with executive producers Jermaine Dupri and Cole Brown, Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO's Seen and Heard – a journey through television history exploring Black representation, and a screening of Tyler Perry Studios' Old Gray Mare. Additionally, the Because They're Funny (BTF) ABFF Comedy Show is set to return this year, with host D.C. Young Fly. Emerging stand-up comedians Lamar Jones, Khrissy Y.S.F., Flo Hernandez, Alex Babbit, Sammy Anzer, and Mel Mitchell. All ABFF live events are held in and around Miami Beach, including the New World Center, the Miami Beach Convention Center. View the 2025 ABFF schedule below and check out the official website for more details. SPOTLIGHT SCREENINGS Thursday, June 12 Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Director's Showcase Presented by Walmart Synopsis: ABFF and Walmart have partnered for the Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Director's Showcase, a competition celebrating Black fatherhood through independent filmmaking. Three directors are chosen to receive industry mentorship, a $10,000 cash award, and the opportunity to screen their films during the 2025 festival. Directors: Okema T. Moore (Laundry), Aji Bass (Freshman. Again.), Ian Phillips (Reconciliation) Moderated by: Dr. Brandon Frame (The Black Man Can) STARZ: Come Play in Our World Presented by Starz Synopsis: STARZ invites you to a screening and panel conversation for two of culture's most anticipated series launches this summer. Date & Time: Friday, June 13, 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, Screening Room 1 The Legacy of a Cultural Powerhouse (Talkback to Follow) Join executive producers Cole Brown and Jermaine Dupri for an exclusive screening of the premiere episode of STARZ's all-new docuseries, 'Magic City: An American Fantasy.' Following the screening, Cole and Jermaine dive deep into the global phenomenon and cultural institution of Magic City, the famed Atlanta strip club, during a moderated Q&A. Panelists: Cole Brown (Creator and Executive Producer), Jermaine Dupri (Executive Producer) Moderated by: Jemele Hill (Journalist, Jemele Hill is Unbothered) 'Exploring the Impact of BMF on Culture, Music, and Fashion' Clips and Conversation with Da'Vinchi, Derryck 'Big Tank' and Keia Bounds as they explore the influence of BMF on culture, including BMF's impact on music, and the fashion in the series that brings the story to life. 'BMF' Premieres June 6 on STARZ. Panelists: Da'Vinchi (Terry 'Big T' Flenory), Keia Bounds (Costume Designer), Derryck Tank Thornton (Music Supervisor) Moderated by: Kelley Carter (Journalist) Friday, June 13 (Talkback to Follow) Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO Synopsis: From executive producer Issa Rae, Seen and Heard is a two-part documentary that travels through time, creating a kaleidoscopic portrait of Black talent being 'seen,' to Black creatives being 'heard,' shaping today's Golden Age of Black television. Panelists: Giselle Bailey (Director, Producer), Phil Bertelsen (Director, Producer) Moderated by: Kimberlin Bolton (Corporate Social Responsibility, Warner Bros. Discovery) (Talkback to Follow) Courtesy of Tyler Perry Studios Synopsis: Dementia is something many families face — an unwelcome shadow that slips in quietly as our loved ones age. We tell ourselves it's normal when they forget names or misplace keys. Just part of getting older. But when Steven and Robin stop by Eileen's house after returning from a relaxing cruise, their lives will never be the same. This time, it's not just forgotten groceries or a misplaced phone. After this, they'll wish they could forget… Panelists: Courtney Glaude (Writer/Director), Charnelle Brown (Actress), Devale Ellis (Actor), Larissa Dali (Actress), Tyler Leply (Actor) Saturday, June 14 Edge of Daybreak Courtesy of A&E Networks Synopsis: We are thrilled to present Edge of Daybreak, a compelling short film directed by the award-winning Dawn Porter. The film chronicles the extraordinary story of a group of inmates who defied the odds to create a timeless piece of art. Introduced by: Amira Lewally (Supervising Producer, A&E) Talkback to Follow) Courtesy of The Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition (BLACC), powered by AHF Synopsis: Come Together: Art's Power for Change is a powerful new documentary series that examines how art sparks cultural shifts and drives social progress. The pilot episode revisits Dirty Laundry (2006)—the ABFF Audience Award winner for Best U.S. Feature—a groundbreaking comedy that boldly redefined representations of identity, family, and belonging. Featuring an all-star cast including Rockmond Dunbar, Loretta Devine, and Jenifer Lewis, the film used humor and heart to challenge societal norms and open minds. The episode includes compelling commentary from Keith Boykin, Crystal McCrary, Patrik-Ian Polk, Bevy Smith, Emil Wilbekin, and more. Talkback with: Nathan Hale Williams (Director) GALA EVENTS Wednesday, June 11 HBO Short Film Award Showcase Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/HBO Synopsis: Now in its 28th year, the HBO® Short Film Award is regarded as one of the most prestigious short film showcases in the world. Five filmmakers are selected as finalists, with one Grand Prize winner receiving the HBO® Short Film Award and a $10,000 cash prize. Each of the four runner-up finalists will receive a $5,000 cash prize. Hosted by: Bevy Smith (Sirius XM's 'Bevelations') Directors: Nick Buchheit (In Good Hands), DeeDee Casimir (Last Hoorah at G-Baby's), Luke Harris (ManBooBs), Sam Henderson (ADO), Oluseyi Olatujoye, and Princess Adenike (A Beauty Supply in Queens) Saturday, June 14 Remembering Love Jones Presented by Walmart Synopsis: Join us for a rare and intimate conversation with Nia Long and Larenz Tate celebrating the legacy of Love Jones (1997), the iconic romantic drama written and directed by Theodore Witcher. This signature ABFF event offers attendees a unique behind-the-scenes look at the cult classic, honoring its poetic dialogue, dynamic performances, and authentic portrayal of Black love—elements that made Love Jones a cultural touchstone. Adding to the magic of the evening, we'll feature curated selections from the film's iconic soundtrack, a musical masterpiece in its own right. From soulful ballads to jazzy rhythms, these timeless tracks will transport attendees back to the essence of Love Jones and its unforgettable vibe. Featuring: Nia Long, Larenz Tate Hosted by: Scott Evans (Journalist, Access Hollywood) PANELS & CONVERSATIONS Thursday, June 12 Faith, Culture, and Streaming: Why Faith-Inspired Stories Are Winning on Streaming Presented by Amazon MGM Studios Synopsis: Once seen as niche, faith-inspired content is now finding mainstream success, and audiences are tuning in because the stories are just that good. This conversation unpacks how shows and films like The Chosen, House of David, and Divorce in the Black are shifting the narrative around spiritually rooted storytelling and how platforms like Amazon are amplifying these narratives for the masses. Featuring: Paras Patel (The Chosen), Michael Iskander (House of David), Traci Blackwell (Head of Targeted Content, Amazon MGM Studios), and Amber Rasberry (Sr. Film Executive, Amazon MGM Studios) After the Game: A Conversation with Chris Paul Synopsis: Join us for an in-depth conversation with Chris Paul, the NBA legend and co-founder of Ohh Dip!!! Productions. As a leader in sports, media, and entertainment, Paul has expanded his influence beyond the court, producing impactful content that highlights diverse voices and compelling storytelling. This session is part of the American Black Film Festival's 'Pro Hollywood' series, which explores the intersection of sports and entertainment while inspiring others to pursue opportunities in the industry. Attendees will gain invaluable insights from Chris Paul and develop a deeper understanding of the storytelling and production expertise that drive his growing legacy. Featuring: Chris Paul Moderated by: Jemele Hill (Journalist, Jemele Hill is Unbothered) and the Undeniable Power of Black Audiences in Theaters Presented by Sony Pictures Entertainment Synopsis: Earlier this year, Black audiences showed up and showed out for the Issa Rae-produced film One Of Them Days, making it one of the early box office hits of 2025. The successful release once again proved the intrinsic value of Black content and the importance of creating meaningful marketing moments that lead to movements. This discussion will help arm and empower creatives to understand some of the core marketing fundamentals necessary to shepherd their content to the right audiences and learn tools that can be used during production to enhance consumer awareness and drive positive outcomes once their stories hit the screen. This session will offer valuable insights and takeaways for aspiring filmmakers and creatives, spotlighting how strategic marketing can drive cultural impact. Panelists: Bridgette Wright (SVP, Global Creative Advertising, Sony Pictures Entertainment), Ellene V. Miles (SVP, Global Intersectional Marketing, Sony Pictures Entertainment), Janessa Ross (Director, Influencer Marketing, Sony Pictures Entertainment) Moderated by: Jon Gist (Executive Director, Global Intersectional Marketing, Sony Pictures Entertainment) Sisterhood & Savings: A Conversation with Gabrielle Union Presented by Ally Financial Synopsis: Join Gabrielle Union and Ally Financial for an inspiring conversation on the power of collective financial growth, well-being, and supporting each other in the journey. This engaging panel will explore money-mindfulness and how women can uplift and support each other. Featuring: Gabrielle Union Moderated by: Kelley L. Carter (Journalist) Bravo's Kings Court: Grown Man Business – Love, Life, and the Spotlight Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal Synopsis: Following the success of Queens Court, now it's time for the Kings to take the throne! Bravo's new series Kings Court, brings a bold take to dating in the spotlight, following three larger-than-life legends – supermodel-actor Tyson Beckford, NBA All-star Carlos Boozer and WWE Hall of Famer Thaddeus 'Titus O'Neil' Bullard – as they search for a connection that is real, grown and lasting in Hollywood's limelight. In this candid conversation, Beckford and Bullard will share their unique perspectives on modern dating as grown Black men in the public eye while managing the shifting societal expectations of men in long-term relationships. Joining them will be Kings Court hosts Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete, and executive producer Richard Brown, who will give a behind-the-scenes look of the show from concept to premiere date. Come for the tea, stay for the truth. The court is in session. Panelists: Holly Robinson Peete (Host), Rodney Peete (Host), Tyson Beckford (Supermodel, Actor), Thaddeus 'Titus O'Neil' Bullard (WWE Hall of Famer), Richard Brown (Executive Producer) Moderated by: Scott Evans (Journalist, Access Hollywood) Beyond the Payout: The Hidden Value of Protection for Entertainment Professionals Presented by Northwestern Mutual Synopsis: Join Northwestern Mutual for cocktails and a thought-provoking conversation featuring insights from our expert financial advisors. You will receive invaluable tips on how to grow and protect your legacy through life and disability insurance, as well as designing a financial plan that allows you to balance today's priorities with your future goals as an entertainment professional. Panelists: Michael D. Watson II (CLTC®, Financial Advisor), Chawn A. Payton (ChFC®, CLU®, CLTC®, Financial Advisor) Propelling Purpose with Dondré Whitfield Synopsis: Join us for an unforgettable night of raw energy, deep introspection, and electrifying improvisation with acclaimed actor, author, and speaker Dondré Whitfield. In this one-man show, Whitfield steps onstage not just as a performer, but as a guide—challenging, inspiring, and activating the ABFF community to transform their pain into purpose. Through powerful storytelling, sharp humor, and audience interaction, he delivers an immersive experience designed to awaken creativity and push past personal limitations. Featuring: Dondré Whitfield (Actor and Author, Male vs. Man) Friday, June 13 The Future of Storytelling: AI and Immersive Technologies in Filmmaking Synopsis: Hosted by Alton Glass from GRX Immersive Labs, this panel will explore the transformative role of AI and immersive technologies in storytelling, focusing on empowering Black creators. Participants will discover the creative possibilities of technology in narrative creation, including the application of Afrofuturism to enhance representation and expression. Panelists: Alton Glass (Storyteller, Founder and Head of Immersive, GRX Immersive Labs), Will Hatcher (Comedian, Writer, AI Storyteller), Sadah Espii Proctor (XR Director, Sound/Media Designer) The Remix: Ashanti's New Chapter of Love, Life & Legacy in Peacock's Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal Synopsis: We've all been living for the rekindled romance of one of music's iconic couples – Grammy-winning artists Ashanti and Nelly. In Peacock's new docu-series, Nelly & Ashanti: We Belong Together, they're giving us front-row seats to the ultimate remix about their journey from spinning the block and locking it down to welcoming their first child together. From backstage moments to baby prep and everything in between, this docuseries is the real-life Hip Hop Soul love story we've been waiting for. Join Ashanti, showrunner and executive producer Oji Singletary and NBCUniversal programming executive Brittinee Royes for a lively conversation with Refinery29 Unbothered's Kathleen Newman-Bremang about chronicling the marriage, family life and careers of one of our favorite couples. Expect big laughs, heartwarming moments, and maybe even a mic drop – because when it comes to love and legacy, Ashanti never misses a beat. Panelists: Ashanti (Executive Producer), Oji Singletary (Showrunner, Executive Producer), Brittinee Royes (Creative Executive, Peacock) Moderated by: Kathleen Newman-Bremang (Global Deputy Director, Refinery29) Creating with Care: A Conversation on Mental Wellness & the Creative Journey Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery/OWN Synopsis: In an industry that thrives on imagination and emotional depth, how do creators protect their own mental and emotional wellbeing? Join OWN Your Health – a wellness initiative by OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network – for a soul-nourishing conversation that brings together trailblazing voices who are reshaping the narrative around mental health in entertainment and beyond. From daily rituals to deep healing, discover how to prioritize mental wellbeing in today's evolving cultural and professional landscape. Whether you are a creator, a fan or someone navigating your own wellness journey, this is the conversation you didn't know you needed. Panelists: Tai Beauchamp (Founder, Morning Mindset with Tai), Dr. Maysa Akbar (Chief Diversity Officer, American Psychological Association) Moderated by: Tina Perry (President, OWN) The Longevity Playbook: A Conversation with Blair Underwood Presented by AARP Synopsis: A fireside chat featuring acclaimed actor Blair Underwood exploring career longevity, financial planning, and long-term success in the entertainment industry. Hear firsthand from Blair how he's prioritized wellness throughout his career and taken charge of his financial health to feel more confident about the future. The conversation will explore staying relevant, financially secure, and healthy for creators, offering valuable insights across generations. Featuring: Blair Underwood Moderated by: Alicia R. Wallace, MPH (Director of Age-Inclusive Marketing, AARP) Reel & Radiant: A Mixer for Black LGBTQ+ Creatives and Their Allies Presented by GLAAD's Communities of Color & Media Team Join GLAAD, the world's largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization, at ABFF for an inspiring and necessary mixer and panel conversation centering Black LGBTQ+ voices in film and television. From the importance of inclusive writers' rooms to the challenges and triumphs of bringing Black queer narratives to the screen, panelists will share insights from their creative journeys and reflect on how visibility shapes culture. Whether you're a creative, an ally, or a changemaker in the making, this mixer and panel offers both inspiration and practical takeaways for building a more inclusive media landscape—one reel at a time. Saturday, June 14 Reel Healing: Using Film to Normalize Mental Wellness in Black Communities Presented by NAMI Synopsis: Championing authentic mental health narratives in Black storytelling—while advocating for healing centered portrayals that celebrate both vulnerability and strength in entertainment. Panelists: Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. (CEO, NAMI), Christine M. Crawford, M.D., MPH (Associate Medical Director, NAMI) Black Opulence: The Intersection of Culture, Class & Capital in Peacock's Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal Synopsis: Join Peacock's 'Bel-Air' stars Adrian Holmes, Cassandra Freeman, and Olly Sholotan alongside showrunner and executive producer Carla Banks-Waddles for a dynamic conversation on reimagining Black wealth and identity in modern television. They'll dive into how Bel-Air transformed a beloved, transformational sitcom classic into a bold, dramatic portrait of Black affluence—one that challenges tired stereotypes and elevates narratives of ambition and unapologetic success. From showcasing the upward mobility to navigating systemic barriers, this panel will explore the power of storytelling to reshape how Black opulence is seen, celebrated, and understood on screen today. Panelists: Carla Banks-Waddles (Executive Producer/Showrunner), Cassandra Freeman (Actor), Adrian Holmes (Actor), Olly Sholotan (Actor) Moderated by: Kaitlyn McNab (Culture Editor, Teen Vogue) BOB Talks: Showcasing Black-Owned Brands Synopsis: BOB Talks, short for Black Owned Brands, is a dynamic new event debuting at the 2025 American Black Film Festival. Celebrating Black entrepreneurship, it highlights the founders behind standout consumer products and brands. Each session features candid conversations and inspiring stories that explore the realities of building a business, from overcoming challenges to achieving success. BOB Talks offers valuable insights that inform, motivate, and empower the next wave of Black innovators. Panelists/Founders: Lisa Price (Carol's Daughter), Ingrid Best (iBest Wines), Maya Smith (The Doux), Jennifer Bell Sinigal-Cornelius (Born To Roam) Moderated by: Nicole Friday (Co-Founder & President, NICE CROWD) Empowering Diversity Through Storytelling Networking Happy Hour Presented by ESPN Synopsis: ESPN continues to entertain the industry with engaging documentaries. Through our commitment to creating unforgettable stories that entertain and resonate globally, we strive to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Join us in celebrating the beauty and diversity of the world around us through the power of storytelling. Panelist: Kati Fernandez (Senior Director, Head of Development, ESPN) Moderated by: Diadra Wilson (Senior Director, Talent Acquisition, ESPN) MASTER CLASSES Wednesday, June 11 Producing Stories for Global Audiences On A Restricted Budget with Luisa Ibañez Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA) Synopsis: Join experienced Florida-based film and TV PGA Producer Luisa Ibañez in an engaging workshop at the American Black Film Festival, where she'll unveil the secrets of crafting compelling stories for global audiences with limited resources. Drawing from her extensive experience in content development for award-winning productions and emergent networks, Luisa will guide participants through the end-to-end process of production, from concept development to distribution. Learn how to embrace multitasking, maximize your creative potential, and leverage strategic partnerships to bring your vision to life without breaking the bank. This workshop offers the big picture for those eager to dive deeper into packaging, budgeting, scheduling, clearance, deliverables, and self-distribution. Don't miss this chance to master the essentials of producing on a budget while creating stories with global appeal. Instructor: Luisa Ibañez Thursday, June 12 ACT IT OUT: Scene Exploration with Patrice DeGraff Arenas Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA) Synopsis: This actor's masterclass affords the participants to learn the art of scene study and moment-to-moment listening that leads to believable action. Students will learn the nuance of gesture, voice, and body language that deliver the best auditions. This class will teach the language, tools, and winning techniques that help nail a scene. The participants will explore the physicality of acting and characterization which are essential for performance. Students will have a hands-on experience through pre-selected scenes that will give them the immersive experience of acting out roles from television and film scripts. The methods taught in this class are inspired by Adler, Hagen, Meisner and Chekov. Instructor: Patrice DeGraff Arenas Friday, June 13 Making Choices as a Director with Miguel Parga Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA) Synopsis: An exploration of script analysis and its translation into camera language and actor direction. From extracting the controlling ideas, to helping the actors discover the truth of the scene, to deciding where the camera goes. Instructor: Miguel Parga Saturday, June 14 The Art of Emotional Writing: Engaging Audiences Scene by Scene with Randall Dottin Presented by New York Film Academy (NYFA) Synopsis: The phrase write what you know is a cornerstone of storytelling advice, but it's only part of the equation. Great writing isn't just about facts—it's about feelings. Emotion is the heartbeat of every great story, and creating it is a skill every storyteller should master. In this two-hour workshop, Randall Dottin— Chair of the New York Film Academy Screenwriting Department, Sundance grant recipient, and winner of the 2022 ABFF Award for Best Web Series —will guide you through tools and techniques to make your stories emotionally resonant. With the help of curated short film clips, writing exercises, and open discussion, you'll learn how to make every scene in your film leave a lasting impression. Instructor: Randall Dottin More from Keyshia Cole Apologizes After Mistakingly Sharing Ashanti Is Pregnant Again Gabrielle Union Says Her Journey With Surrogacy Felt Like A "Public Humiliation" Ashanti Blasted By Chris Gotti For Denying Relationship With Irv Gotti: "I Was Their Therapist"
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Jermaine Dupri Declares An Atlanta Summer With ‘Magic City' Docuseries At ABFF
Jermaine Dupri welcomed the 2025 American Black Film Festival attendees to Atlanta with a sneak peek at his pending docuseries, Magic City: An American Fantasy. During a panel discussion that opened the world of STARZ at the annual event, Dupri was joined by Cole Brown, who also executive-produced and created the work, for a chat about the famed hotspot with journalist Jemele Hill. The lively Q&A packed out the convention center room in Miami, with many left at the door due to the anticipation for the screening and subsequent conversation. As they beamed with pride, both men prepared to unpack the allure of Magic City and the importance of telling the story behind its rise to fame. Officially, Magic City: An American Fantasy is a five-part docuseries that takes a deep dive into one of Atlanta's most influential destinations and its impact, extending beyond its reputation as a strip club. The nightlife mainstay is responsible for shaping the city's cultural and music landscape and beyond. As described in a press statement, 'through an alluring, dynamic and artistic lens, the docuseries immerses viewers in the Magic City phenomenon, exploring its historical significance, its role in the rise of Southern Hip-Hop and its impact on women's empowerment in the industry, since being established in 1985. Heralded as the 'Black Studio 54,' Magic City became the definitive king-maker in the Hip-Hop community and became a place where fantasy and reality collide. 'I got Magic City documentary dropping August 15 on Starz,' assured Dupri to VIBE ahead of ABFF earlier this month at the 25th annual BET Awards. The project initially premiered to critical acclaim at the 2024 SXSW Festival. Drake's DreamCrew Entertainment, Jermaine Dupri, and Jami Gertz serve as executive producers. The series is directed by Charles Todd. He continued to detail how the docuseries inspired him to tap in with Atlanta musicians of all generations to create a brand new album. The first single, 'Turn Around,' which features T.I., Young Dro, and 2 Chainz, was released last week. 'It started as a soundtrack, and then as I started making the records, I'm like yo, this really a Jermaine Dupri album with a whole bunch of artists that I've never worked with, and I also started saying Im going to put artists from Atlanta on this…So, it's me making records with artists I never worked with, that's from the same city that I'm from. That's exciting to me.' He continued to detail, 'People keep saying bridge the gap, I'm just trynna put my city on. We gon rock out. It's an Atlanta summer.' Watch a preview for the Magic City: An American Fantasy docuseries below and tune in to its STARZ debut on August 15 at 10 p.m. ET/PT in the U.S., after the season finale of BMF. More from Jermaine Dupri Hints At Drake Getting His Own Radio Station In 'Grand Theft Auto 6' dvsn Signs With Jermaine Dupri And So So Def For Multi-Album Deal ABFF 2025 Speaker Lineup Announced: Gabrielle Union, Jermaine Dupri, Ashanti, And More
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Thanks Keke Palmer for ‘Making Me Famous,' Aaron Pierre Breaks Out Viral ‘Mufasa' Dance Moves and More Inside ABFF Honors
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor enjoyed a surprise early birthday celebration at the 2025 American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors ceremony on Monday night — complete with a cake, sparkling candles and the well-heeled crowd singing her 'Happy Birthday' (the Stevie Wonder version, of course). Ellis-Taylor was among the special honorees at the awards show, feted not just for turning another year older, but for delivering another year full of dazzling performances, including in the best picture Oscar-nominated film 'Nickel Boys.' Though the spotlight was on Elllis-Taylor, she seemed less interested in accepting her well-deserved flowers than in doling them out to her fellow honorees. More from Variety Taraji P. Henson Urges Black Creatives to 'Keep Telling Your Truth, Because It's All We Have' ABFF Honors to Salute Taraji P. Henson, Jeffrey Wright, Garrett Morris and Mara Brock Akil Kerry Washington Pays Tribute to Whitney Houston, Diahann Carroll at ABFF Honors 'Keke Palmer made me famous,' Ellis-Taylor declared as she took the stage at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills to accept ABFF's Excellence in the Arts trophy from her 'Origin' director Ava DuVernay. A dozen years ago, Ellis-Taylor and Palmer — who was honored with the Renaissance Award for her varied career accomplishments thus far — co-starred in the Lifetime TV movie 'Abducted: The Carlina White Story.' According to Ellis-Taylor, Palmer and her mother Sharon Palmer fought to ensure that she had the opportunity to do meaty work that reached a wide audience. 'And I've been chasing that feeling ever since,' Ellis-Taylor said. 'Because it was the first time I felt the line between who I was and who I played merged.' Ellis-Taylor also saluted Marla Gibbs, the evening's Hollywood Legacy award honoree, explaining that one cannot be honored 'alongside' an icon like 'The Jeffersons' and '227' alum, 'because [she] will always be in the distance — unreachable, unmatched. She was my understanding of what it was to be a comedian. They had Carol Burnett. We had Marla Gibbs.' Then, she offered words of affirmation to Rising Star award winner Aaron Pierre, explaining that she only knew him by rumor, but that what she'd heard 'portends a world-changer.' She saved her final praise for Giancarlo Esposito, who picked up the evening's other Excellence in the Arts prize. 'I was born an agitator, probably. But there was no definition to it, until I saw you. I was given words to what was churning inside of me,' Ellis-Taylor said of watching Esposito in Spike Lee's 'Do the Right Thing.' His insightful and inciting quote ('How come you ain't got no brothers on that wall?') inspired her activism moving forward, as the film opened her eyes to the structural inequities that need to be addressed in the fight for equality. 'This is why these messages of 'another seat at the table' is deaf to me. I don't want to hear that. I'm not interested at no seat at no table. I don't want the seat or the table. I want the structure. I want the land that the structure belongs,' Ellis-Taylor preached. 'Why? Because it's mine. … Thank you ABFF, because you are encouraging me to tear down that wall, to tear down that house and reclaim the land.' Ellis-Taylor's rousing speech might've been the most potent of a night that felt more church revival than awards show. In fact, the black tie gala kicked off with the gospel choir from Victory Bible Church in Pasadena, Calif., singing a rousing rendition of 'The Best Is Yet to Come,' by Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers, to honor the historically Black communities affected by the L.A. wildfires. The show, hosted by comedian Zainab Johnson, was packed with sincere moments, like Anthony Mackie sharing the advice Esposito gave him, a kid fresh off the boat from New Orleans, about how to be a successful working actor, decades before they were Marvel co-stars; or Palmer discussing the importance of creators owning their rightful share of their content; or a 93-year-old Gibbs saying that she's not done yet, and sharing her mantra: 'Long as you're still here and still breathing, you've got another shot.' But the event was far from a somber affair. Case in point, Pierre was played onto the stage to accept his award with the viral anthem, 'Aaron. Pierre. That's Mufasaaaa,' which was created by the crew of 'The Jennifer Hudson Show' for his 'Spirit Tunnel' entrance last December. In on the joke, Pierre gave the people what they wanted and gamely did his little dance — suavely two-stepping, spinning and high-fiving the trophy presenter, while the crowd clapped and sang along. Scroll on for a look inside the ceremony:
