Critics Choice Celebration of Black Cinema & Television
Honoring Excellence in Black Entertainment • December 9, 2025
The Critics Choice Association celebrated its 8th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television on December 9, 2025, honoring a stellar lineup of talent that showcased the breadth, depth, and enduring impact of Black storytelling across film and television. From legendary filmmakers to breakthrough stars, the ceremony at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles recognized achievements that continue to reshape the entertainment landscape.
The 8th annual Critics’ Choice Association (CCA) Celebration of Black Cinema & Television honored talent by recognizing outstanding achievements both on- and off-screen within the Black entertainment community. The event took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on December 9th.
Hosted by Jay Pharoah, the event featured notable guests such as Michael B. Jordan, Edwin Hodge, Ryan Destiny, Aiyana Lee, Wunmi Mosaku, Sinqua Walls, Ludwig Göransson, Delroy Lindo, and many more.
Director Spike Lee took the stage to accept the prestigious Career Achievement Award, honoring his body of work that has redefined contemporary cinema. Performer David Alan Grier was recognized with the Vanguard Award for his extensive career across comedy, stage, and screen.
Filmmaker Ryan Coogler received the Director Award for his work on Warner Bros. Pictures’ feature film, Sinners. Meanwhile, the significance of nonfiction storytelling was acknowledged as Reginald Hudlin and Shola Lynch won the Documentary Award for their insightful Apple TV project, Number One on the Call Sheet.
On the small screen, Janelle James was honored with the Comedy Award for her standout performance in ABC’s critically acclaimed series, Abbott Elementary. In the drama category, competition was fierce, with three-time Emmy winner Sterling K. Brown taking home the Actor Award—Series for his role in Hulu’s thriller Paradise, and Jurnee Smollett being awarded the Actress Award—Series for her performance in Apple TV’s Smoke.
The big screen celebrated outstanding performances, with Tessa Thompson receiving the Actress Award—Film for her portrayal of the iconic feminist lead in Nia DaCosta’s Hedda. The ensemble cast of Warner Bros. Pictures’ action comedy One Battle After Another—including Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti—was jointly honored with the Ensemble Award. Additional film accolades included Damson Idris, who was awarded the Supporting Actor Award – Film for his role in the record-breaking Apple Original film F1.
In the television category, Skye P. Marshall earned the Supporting Actress Award—Series for her performance in CBS’s hit legal drama, Matlock. Her award was notably accompanied by a special STARZ #TakeTheLead designation, highlighting the network’s commitment to championing narratives by, about, and for women and underrepresented audiences.
