The 8th Annual Celebration of Black Cinema and Television brought together some of the most influential voices and faces in entertainment for a night rooted in recognition, legacy, and forward momentum. Presented by the Critics’ Choice Association, the event was held Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles and was once again hosted by actor and comedian Jay Pharoah, returning to the role with his signature charisma and cultural fluency.
According to the CCA, the annual celebration “honors standout work both onscreen and offscreen from the Black entertainment community,” and this year’s honorees reflected the depth, range, and impact of that excellence across film, television, and documentary storytelling.
Legendary filmmaker Spike Lee was among the most celebrated figures of the evening, receiving the Career Achievement Award. The Academy Award winning writer and director was honored for his extraordinary body of work that has left an indelible mark on popular culture over the last four decades. The CCA highlighted Lee’s most recent project, Highest 2 Lowest, as a continuation of his uncompromising vision and cultural relevance that continues to shape conversations within and beyond the industry.
Veteran actor and comedian David Alan Grier received the Vanguard Award, recognizing a career that spans stage, film, and television. Known for his versatility and longevity, Grier was acknowledged for his ongoing contributions to entertainment, including his recent role on NBC’s St. Denis Medical. His recognition underscored a career defined by range, resilience, and impact.
Acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler was honored with the Director Award, further cementing his place as one of the most influential directors of his generation. An Academy Award nominee, Coogler continues to shape modern cinema through powerful storytelling and culturally resonant narratives, most recently with Sinners.
The Ensemble Award went to Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti for their collective work in the film One Battle After Another. The cast’s chemistry and emotional depth were recognized as a standout example of collaborative storytelling that resonates with audiences.
The celebration also spotlighted emerging and established talent across multiple categories, highlighting performances and projects that continue to elevate Black stories across platforms.
Full List of Honorees
Career Achievement Award: Spike Lee (Highest 2 Lowest)
Vanguard Award: David Alan Grier (St. Denis Medical)
Director Award: Ryan Coogler (Sinners)
Ensemble Award: Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, Chase Infiniti (One Battle After Another)
Breakthrough Performance Award: Tenika Davis (Spartacus: House of Ashur)
Rising Star Award: Naya Desir-Johnson (Sarah’s Oil)
Actress Award, Film: Tessa Thompson (Hedda)
Actor Award, Series: Sterling K. Brown (Paradise)
Actress Award, Series: Jurnee Smollett (Smoke)
Supporting Actor Award, Film: Damson Idris (F1)
Supporting Actress Award, Series: Skye P. Marshall (Matlock)
Documentary Award: Reginald Hudlin and Shola Lynch (Number One on the Call Sheet)
Comedy Award: Janelle James (Abbott Elementary)
As the Celebration of Black Cinema and Television continues to grow, its mission remains clear: to honor brilliance, amplify voices, and acknowledge the creators who are shaping the present and future of entertainment. The 8th annual event served as both a reflection of how far the industry has come and a reminder of the powerful stories still being told.
Follow Us On Social Media!
