Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor - ABFF Honors - Press Photo

Published on December 27th, 2024 | by Jessica Williams

Hollywood Royalty to Shine at 2025 ABFF Honors: Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Giancarlo Esposito, and Keke Palmer Set to Receive Prestigious Awards

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF Honors) is back and bigger than ever. The 7th annual celebration of Black excellence in film and television will take place on February 17, 2025, at the opulent SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. This highly anticipated event will be hosted by the multi-talented comedian and actress Zainab Johnson, adding her signature charm and wit to an evening dedicated to recognizing trailblazers in the entertainment industry.

This year’s ABFF Honors will spotlight three extraordinary honorees whose groundbreaking contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry:

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor – Excellence in the Arts Award (Female)
The Oscar-nominated powerhouse, known for her commanding role as Oracene Price in King Richard, will be celebrated for her illustrious body of work and distinguished career achievements. Aunjanue’s career spans film, television, and stage, with notable roles in If Beale Street Could Talk, The Birth of a Nation, and The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel. Up next, she’s set to star in the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Nickel Boys—a role that’s already stirring buzz in Hollywood.

Giancarlo Esposito – Excellence in the Arts Award (Male)

A true chameleon on screen, Giancarlo Esposito is perhaps best known for his chilling portrayal of Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. His impeccable range as an actor, director, and producer has earned him multiple Critics’ Choice and NAACP Image Awards. Esposito’s more recent roles in The Mandalorian, The Boys, and Kaleidoscope have cemented his status as a fan favorite. With upcoming appearances in Captain America: Brave New World and The Electric State, his reign as one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars shows no signs of slowing down.

Keke Palmer – Renaissance Award

The multi-hyphenate sensation Keke Palmer will be honored with the Renaissance Award for her transformative impact on the industry. From her unforgettable breakout role in Akeelah and the Bee to her stellar performance in Jordan Peele’s Nope, Keke’s career has been a masterclass in versatility. Beyond acting, she’s a producer, singer, author, and CEO of KeyTV—a platform dedicated to elevating underrepresented creators. As the first Black Cinderella on Broadway and the youngest talk show host in history, Keke continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation.

The Power of Recognition

Jeff and Nicole Friday, co-founders of NICE CROWD and executive producers of the ABFF Honors, shared their excitement for this year’s honorees. “For decades, these incredible ABFF honorees have captivated audiences and shaped the cultural landscape with their groundbreaking work,” they said. “It’s a privilege to honor Aunjanue, Giancarlo, and Keke for their extraordinary contributions to both the industry and our shared culture.” They also noted the special significance of having Zainab Johnson as the host, as her journey from winning the 2013 ABFF Comedy Wings Competition to hosting this prestigious event embodies the festival’s mission to uplift Black talent.

What Makes the ABFF Honors Special?

The ABFF Honors isn’t just another awards show—it’s a celebration of Black excellence in its purest form. This exclusive, non-televised event brings together entertainment’s most influential voices for an intimate dinner and celebration. Launched in 2016 as an extension of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), the Honors have become a hallmark of awards season. The ABFF was founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday to showcase Black storytelling and create opportunities for Black creatives—a mission that remains at the heart of the ABFF Honors today.

About ABFF and Its Mission

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) has long been a champion of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Over the years, the festival has played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of Black filmmakers, actors, and storytellers. The ABFF Honors further this mission by shining a spotlight on seasoned performers and creators who continue to shape and challenge the industry’s status quo.

The 2025 Celebration Awaits

The 2025 ABFF Honors promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with elegance, inspiration, and celebration. With sponsors like Cadillac, Ally, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, along with support from Fulton Films GA and SLS Hotel Beverly Hills, the event is poised to deliver a first-class experience.

As Hollywood’s finest gather to honor Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Giancarlo Esposito, and Keke Palmer, it’s clear that this year’s ABFF Honors will not only be a night to remember but also a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, legacy, and Black excellence in film and television.