The Critics Choice Association has unveiled the honorees for its 9th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, taking place November 16, 2026, in Los Angeles. Emmy-nominated comedian and actor Roy Wood Jr. will host the ceremony, which is scheduled to premiere on the organization’s official YouTube channel in December.
This year’s honorees represent a diverse range of accomplishments across film and television, recognizing celebrated entertainers, acclaimed creators, and emerging filmmakers.
Debbie Allen will receive the Icon Award for her influential career spanning nearly five decades, including her contributions to A Different World and its 2026 Netflix sequel. Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson will be presented with the Groundbreaker Award, while Chiwetel Ejiofor earns the Vanguard Award for his performance in A24’s Backrooms.
Chris Rock will receive the Director Award for Misty Green, which he also wrote, produced, and stars in. Lamorne Morris is being recognized with the Comedy Award for Spider-Noir, and Katori Hall will receive the Showrunner Award for P-Valley.
On the acting front, Jaafar Jackson earns the Actor Award – Film for portraying Michael Jackson in the biopic Michael, while Anthony Mackie receives the Actor Award – Series for 12 12 12. Stephan James (I Play Rocky) and Sophie Okonedo (Mouse) will be honored for their supporting performances in film. Ato Essandoh (The Diplomat) and Quincy Tyler Bernstine (Furious) will receive the supporting acting awards for television, with Bernstine also receiving a special STARZ #TakeTheLead designation.
Filmmaking duo Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri will share the Breakthrough Director Award for Clarissa, while Jaalen Best receives the Rising Star Award for The Greatest.
Executive producer Shawn Edwards emphasized the importance of celebrating ambitious storytelling and recognizing the artists whose work continues to shape Black representation in entertainment.
The annual celebration remains a platform for honoring the achievements of Black creatives across the industry, highlighting both established trailblazers and the next generation of storytellers.