On August 11, 2019, in Marina Del Rey, the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) handed out eight awards and two honorary awards today to celebrate the excellence, innovation and diversity in television this year. The luncheon in the Fireside Room at the California Yacht Club was filled with guests that included AAFCA members, industry executives, Chaz Ebert, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janet Mock, Richard Brooks and MJ Rodriguez, among many others. The event was presided over by AAFCA President Gil Robertson.
1st ANNUAL AAFCA TV HONOREES INCLUDED:
Best TV Comedy: “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
A comedy series, limited series, television movie or special that stands out for its quality and cultural significance presented to the series creator Jim Reynolds and cast members Cedric the Entertainer, Tichina Arnold, Max Greenfield, Marcel Spears, Beth Behrs, and Sheaun McKinney.
Best TV Drama: “Power” (Starz)
A drama series, limited series, documentary series, television movie or otherwise that stands out for its quality and cultural significance presented to show writer Eric Haywood and director Anthony Hemingway.
Best Limited Series: “When They See Us” (Netflix)
A limited series, television movie or special that stands out for its quality and cultural significance presented to creator, co-writer and director Ava DuVernay.
Best Ensemble: “When They See Us” (Netflix)
This award may be given to an ensemble in a drama series, limited series, documentary series, television movie or otherwise that stands out as a groundbreaker or gamechanger in the television landscape. Presented to cast members Niecy Nash, Aunjanue Ellis, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Jharrel Jerome and Asante Blackk.
Breakthrough Performance: Jharrel Jerome “When They See Us”
This award may be given to an actor, creator or project that stands out as a groundbreaker or gamechanger in the television landscape
Best Writing: “When They See Us” (Netflix)
Writing for a drama series, comedy series, limited series, documentary series, television movie
or otherwise that stands out for its quality and cultural significance. Presented to writer Attica Locke.
Best TV Performance – Female: Angela Bassett
An actress whose work during the calendar year has been extraordinary.
Best TV Performance – Male: Sterling K. Brown
An actor whose work during the calendar year has been extraordinary.
Inclusion Award: CBS
Recognizes a network or production entity that demonstrates a powerful commitment to diversity and inclusion presented to Kelly Kahl President, CBS Entertainment.
TV Icon Award: Ryan Murphy
Recognizes a veteran of television who has forged a path in greatness.
