The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors is set to return for its 7th annual celebration of Black excellence in film and television. Presented by NICE CROWD, the 2025 ceremony will take place on Monday, February 17, at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. The intimate, non-televised event will be hosted by actress and comedian Zainab Johnson, adding her sharp wit and charisma to an evening dedicated to trailblazing talent.
This year’s honorees include Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Giancarlo Esposito, and Keke Palmer, each receiving well-deserved recognition for their contributions to the entertainment industry.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will receive the Excellence in the Arts Award (Female). Known for her Oscar-nominated portrayal of Oracene Price in King Richard, Ellis-Taylor has built a dynamic career spanning film, television, and theater. Her upcoming role in the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Nickel Boys is eagerly anticipated, and her recent performances in The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat and Ava DuVernay’s Origin have only solidified her reputation as one of Hollywood’s finest.
Giancarlo Esposito, celebrated for his iconic role as Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, will receive the Excellence in the Arts Award (Male). An Emmy-nominated actor, director, and producer, Esposito’s remarkable versatility has made him a force across film, television, and streaming platforms. From The Mandalorian to The Boys and beyond, his work continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
Keke Palmer, a multi-hyphenate powerhouse, will be honored with the Renaissance Award. With Emmy-winning turns as a host, standout performances in films like Nope, and leadership as CEO of KeyTV, Palmer is a driving force for representation and equity in the industry. Her career, marked by groundbreaking achievements like becoming the first Black Cinderella on Broadway, speaks to her commitment to breaking boundaries and championing diverse voices.
Jeff and Nicole Friday, founders of NICE CROWD and the ABFF, expressed their pride in this year’s honorees. “For decades, Aunjanue, Giancarlo, and Keke have captivated audiences with their talent and reshaped the cultural landscape through their artistry,” they said. “We are thrilled to celebrate their incredible legacies alongside our ABFF community.”
Since its inception in 2016, the ABFF Honors has been dedicated to spotlighting Black talent and storytelling. As an extension of the ABFF, founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the event champions the conviction that Black artists deserve equal recognition and opportunities in Hollywood.
With major sponsors like Cadillac, Ally, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, the 2025 ABFF Honors will be another landmark evening, celebrating not only the stars on screen but also the community of creatives behind the scenes.