The excitement is building as the 18th Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards approaches. Taking place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, this event will honor some of the most influential women in the entertainment industry. The ceremony, hosted by Aldis Hodge, will celebrate the outstanding contributions of Cynthia Erivo, Teyana Taylor, Marla Gibbs, and Raamla Mohamed. This awards show kicks off the Oscars weekend, highlighting Black women’s unparalleled impact on film and television.
Star-Studded Lineup of Honorees
This year’s honorees represent a powerful mix of talent and trailblazing achievements. Cynthia Erivo stands out as a multi-award-winning actress and singer, with Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards already in her name. Recently, she earned her third Oscar nomination for her role in Wicked. Meanwhile, Teyana Taylor, an award-winning actress, singer, and creative director, is poised to make waves with her roles in upcoming projects like All’s Fair from Ryan Murphy.
Marla Gibbs, a true legend, has received five Emmy nominations and eight NAACP Image Award wins throughout her career. Known for her iconic roles in The Jeffersons and 227, she has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Raamla Mohamed, an Emmy-nominated writer, is also making her presence felt as the creator and executive producer of the hit Hulu series Reasonable Doubt. These women have not only excelled in their craft but have also paved the way for future generations.
A Night to Celebrate Black Women in Entertainment
The Black Women in Hollywood Awards is more than just a glamorous night of recognition—it’s a celebration of Black women’s contributions both on-screen and behind the scenes. The theme for this year’s event is “Scene and Unseen,” focusing on the stories and vision that often go unrecognized but deeply shape the entertainment world. This ceremony serves as a call to honor those whose work often goes unnoticed but is essential to the industry’s growth and transformation.
Essence’s Expanded Programming for 2025
In addition to the awards ceremony, Essence will be broadcasting an exclusive red carpet pre-show on their YouTube channel on March 3, 2025. Viewers will get an inside look at the arrivals and the excitement surrounding the night. The pre-show will also reveal the winner of the ESSIES’ Choice Award, a fan-voted honor highlighting an emerging industry talent.
The Essence Hollywood House will also return on Friday, February 28, 2025, with the theme “To Altadena With Love.” This event offers a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers, actors, and industry enthusiasts to network, engage in skill-building activities, and participate in panel discussions. The event will also be streamed on Essence.com, giving those unable to attend in person a chance to be part of the action.
A Commitment to Community Support
In addition to celebrating Black women in Hollywood, Essence is also committed to giving back to the community. In response to the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, the event will support relief efforts in the historically Black communities of Altadena, Pasadena, and the surrounding areas. This underscores Essence’s dedication to uplifting both the industry and the communities that are often underrepresented and overlooked.
