Recently, the 18th annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, spotlighting Black women who are shaping the future of film and television. Hosted by actor Aldis Hodge, the ceremony brought together industry veterans and rising stars for a day of celebration and reflection.
This year’s honorees included Cynthia Erivo, Teyana Taylor, Marla Gibbs, and Raamla Mohamed, recognized for their transformative storytelling and cultural impact. Tyra Banks also received the first-ever ESSENCE Luminary Spotlight Award for her decades-long career and trailblazing influence.
Opening the event, political correspondent Joy Reid set the tone with a call for more diversity and inclusion in Hollywood and society. Keke Palmer, presenting the award to Erivo, praised her as a “once-in-a-generation” talent who continues to redefine what is possible for Black women on stage and screen.
In a powerful speech, Cynthia Erivo addressed the importance of authenticity, saying, “We realize that we are, as ourselves, unlimited and our experiences, valid. It is for the rest of the world to recognize if they choose.” Her words drew a standing ovation as she urged the room to embrace the fullness of Black womanhood.
Raamla Mohamed, creator and executive producer of “Reasonable Doubt,” reflected on community and representation. “Black love is not just romance. It’s platonic love, familial love. It’s supporting each other,” she said. Mohamed added, “We can listen to Juvenile and also be in a courtroom,” speaking to the multifaceted lives of Black women.
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Teyana Taylor, honored for her artistry across music, film, and fashion, was celebrated by Niecy Nash-Betts, who highlighted Taylor’s creative fearlessness and commitment to authenticity. Taylor, known for her versatility, spoke about embracing every part of her journey.
Veteran actress Marla Gibbs, who received a heartfelt tribute from Tichina Arnold, moved the room with her acceptance speech.
Reflecting on her groundbreaking career, Gibbs said, “I hope to see a Black woman president in my lifetime.” She expressed pride in paving the way for generations of Black actresses and celebrated contemporary talents like Tiffany Haddish, Tisha Campbell, and Tichina Arnold herself.
Tyra Banks addressed her own career and past criticisms of “America’s Next Top Model,” admitting, “Did we get it right? Hell no.” She acknowledged lessons learned and reaffirmed her commitment to evolving and creating inclusive spaces for Black women in fashion and entertainment.
Host Aldis Hodge tied the event together with a powerful reminder. “Today we celebrate the stories that live beyond the screen — stories that show our strength, our beauty, and our power,” he told the crowd, underscoring the impact of representation and truth-telling in Hollywood.
In a moment of reflection, Jotaka Eaddy, founder of Win With Black Women, paid tribute to communities affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. She honored the resilience of Altadena and Pasadena, reminding attendees of the need for continued community solidarity.
Apple TV+ premiered the trailer for “Number One on the Call Sheet,” a two-part documentary that chronicles the journey of Black actors breaking barriers to lead roles in Hollywood. The project adds to the growing body of work amplifying Black narratives in entertainment.
The event was filled with star power. Celebrities in attendance included Taraji P. Henson, Zoë Kravitz, Keke Palmer, Storm Reid, Marsai Martin, Danielle Brooks, Meagan Good, Jodie Turner-Smith, Anthony Anderson, Tyla, Lori Harvey, Natasha Rothwell, Coco Jones, and Laverne Cox.
On the red carpet, Teyana Taylor stunned in a custom Amiri gown in camel, while Cynthia Erivo turned heads in a sheer Maison Margiela look styled by Jason Bolden.
Keke Palmer wowed in an orange corset dress paired with a flowing skirt and sleek copper bob. Zoë Kravitz opted for a chic white mini dress with gold accents, and Jodie Turner-Smith rocked a green leather look from H&M’s 2025 spring collection.
The inaugural Essies’ Choice Award, presented by Diet Coke, recognized an emerging industry luminary voted on by fans. The award reflects ESSENCE’s commitment to uplifting the next generation of Black creatives.
The 2025 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards were sponsored by Apple TV+, Crown Royal, Diet Coke, smartwater, and Prime Video, and produced in partnership with MVD Inc. For those who missed the event, a full replay, including red carpet arrivals and interviews, is available on ESSENCE’s YouTube channel.
More than an awards ceremony, the event was a celebration of Black women shaping the narrative of Hollywood through courage, talent, and authenticity. As Aldis Hodge said, “We are here because Black women are the foundation of every story worth telling.”
