For the past 16 years, ESSENCE — one of the leading Black-owned media companies — has proudly honored extraordinary Black women in the entertainment industry. This year’s Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon was no different, celebrating those whose work continues to break barriers and inspire.
Hollywood Unlocked was on the carpet where we spoke with many incredible guests, all gathered for one purpose: to honor the achievements and impact of Black women in Hollywood.
This year’s honorees included Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, acclaimed director Gina Prince-Bythewood, Freeform and Onyx Collective executive Tara Duncan, and standout actresses Danielle Deadwyler (Till) and Dominique Thorne (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever). Hosted by Boris Kodjoe, the event also featured presenters such as Quinta Brunson, Viola Davis, Yara Shahidi, Chinonye Chukwu, Ryan Coogler, and Daniel Kaluuya.
Each year, ESSENCE spotlights Black women across the entertainment landscape — from actors and directors to producers, screenwriters, and showrunners. But this year, the luncheon placed a special emphasis on honoring women who shape stories from behind the scenes, ensuring Black narratives are seen and heard.
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood, whom we spoke to on the carpet, shared the challenges she’s faced bringing Black stories to life:
“They are the hardest films to get made in Hollywood absolutely. Every film I’ve done has been a fight, but that fight is worth it because if we’re not doing it who is going to put these films out. So it’s on us to get into these rooms prove our value do good work that begets good work and like we have to we can’t be invisible. It’s so important to be able to look up on the screen and see yourself”
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We also spoke with ESSENCE Ventures President and CEO Caroline Wanga, who reflected on the importance of celebrating Black women’s contributions in Hollywood, especially behind the scenes:
“Two things are true number one there have been black women running this ecosystem they just haven’t been recognized, notified, and given value. The progress is, we are behind more cameras, behind more desks behind my money than ever before. My job is not to decide who deserves to be honored my job is to illuminate those doing the work so, adding new people who are doing new things is a live demonstration of the progress.”
The day was filled with wisdom, celebration, and a sense of community — and the energy was undeniable on the carpet. Take a look at our recap above and let us know what you think!