Cynthia Erivo, Tyler Perry, Regina King, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Honored at Critics Choice Celebration of Black Cinema and Television

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As a long-time admirer of these extraordinary artists, I was absolutely captivated by the Critics Choice Association’s 7th annual Celebration of Black Cinema and Television. It was a night filled with poignant speeches, heartfelt acceptance, and a palpable sense of camaraderie that transcended the screen.

14 awards were handed out at the Critics Choice Association’s 7th annual Black Cinema and Television Celebration, with recipients being stars like Tyler Perry, Cynthia Erivo, Regina King, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor in categories such as acting, producing, directing, and composing. This event showcased the influence of these celebrities in their respective fields.

The event, which took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on a Monday, was emceed by comedian Jay Pharoah. He injected humor into the atmosphere as the evening’s recipients discussed the significance of their accolades and the projects that earned them these honors.

Perry spoke about the tragic passing of Steve Mensch, the head of Tyler Perry Studios, who sadly perished in a plane accident on Friday evening. Remarkably, this came only a day after he had marked the 15th anniversary of his mother’s death. As he graciously received the Icon Award from Kelly Rowland.

Life is fleeting and valuable, so let’s focus on sharing love with each other more. At 55 years old, I’m weary of unnecessary conflicts. Currently, my goal is to bring joy, inspire, do good deeds, and uplift others. This has always been my aim, but now there’s a sense of urgency as I reflect on our current global situation.

When I heard about the Icon Award, I initially thought ‘Alright, an icon represents something,’ but one must be cautious when others label you an icon. You see, only visible deer get hunted, and similarly, if you’re an icon, you become a target. People are always watching, ready to criticize. There’s always someone at the bottom trying to bring you down, while those above cheer. So I hope that as people call me an icon, they remember me more for being an inspiration.

Perry commenced his acceptance speech referencing a quote from writer Jesmyn Ward, which fellow laureate Ellis-Taylor had mentioned in her own speech earlier: “The first instrument I ever held was my mother’s hand.” The actress then elaborated on the significance of receiving the Social Impact Award, bestowed upon her by Nickel Boys co-stars Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson, as well as director Ramell Ross.

The actress stated that she performs her duties due to the ongoing and delicate struggle for Black freedom in our nation. They may possess their liberty without regard for the suffering of others, but what I yearn for is true liberation.

In her commitment to carry forward the tradition of narrating stories about unsung Black heroines, Ellis-Taylor declared, “I’ll strive to reveal their genuine tales – these women who shaped history, like Fannie Lou Hamer and Ella Baker. If I must peddle fish plates on the roadside until my very last breath, I will do so. This is my battle, my next battle. However, I don’t wish to fight this alone. So please, don’t leave me.

Moreover, Regina King earned the Trailblazer Award (Shirley), Wendell Pierce took home the Actor Award (Series) for Elsbeth, and John David Washington won the Actor Award (Film) for The Piano Lesson. Natasha Rothwell received the Producer Award for How To Die Alone, Steve McQueen claimed the Director Award for Blitz, and Jharrel Jerome was bestowed with the Breakthrough Award for Unstoppable. Kris Bowers garnered the Composer Award for The Wild Robot, while Ryan Destiny and Michael Rainey Jr. each received the Rising Star Award for their work in film (The Fire Inside) and series (Power), respectively. Natalie Rae and Angela Batton’s documentary Daughters was honored, and Malcolm D. Lee was granted the Career Achievement Award by the cast of The Best Man. Ava DuVernay, Aldis Hodge, Mara Brock Akil, and Jeffrey Wright served as presenters during the event.

Cynthia Erivo, previously honored with a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked, later received the actress accolade from the Critics Choice Association. This recognition was bestowed upon her by Sheryl Lee Ralph, who played Madame Morrible on Broadway.

As a fellow admirer, I resonate deeply with tales such as Elphaba’s – stories about the rebellious, the misjudged, the courageous, who discovered their power in what made them unique. Stories of extraordinary abilities, but more importantly, extraordinary compassion – these are our stories, and they’re my stories too.

As a young girl, I rarely encountered characters who looked like me in stories such as this,” Erivo explained. “Characters with curly hair, brown eyes, prominent cheekbones, and a flattened nose playing superhero roles. But now, they have their representation. So, for every child who finds themselves in Elphaba, for every Black person who feels her power, for every individual who identifies as queer and sees their struggle mirrored, for anyone who has ever felt isolated and overlooked, the musical Wicked is dedicated to you. Elphaba is a love letter to you. Representation is an influential force. It’s why I wanted her long nails, microbraids, and boldness to embody not just her greenness but my Blackness. I am aware of my heritage; it is the foundation upon which I build. Because when we bring our entire selves into our work, it serves as a reflection not only for us, but also for the world.

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2024-12-10 22:24