On Tuesday, February 2, 2016, the honorees for Essence Magazine’s 9th annual Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon was announced.
The luncheon is a highly anticipated, important part of the week leading up to the Oscars, and former honorees have included many prestigious women in the entertainment industry such as Lupita N’yongo and Ava DuVernay in recent years.
This year, the Black Women In Hollywood Awards will be presented to Tracee Ellis Ross (Fierce & Fearless Award), Debbie Allen (Legend Award), and Nina Shaw (Lincoln Power Award). Tracee Ellis Ross is a powerhouse actress who is currently starring on “black-ish,” Debbie Allen is a multi-talented producer, director, and actress who is currently serving the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities, and Nina Shaw is a fierce entertainment lawyer.
The luncheon is to be televised as a Essence and OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network special on Saturday, February 27 at 10 pm ET/PT on OWN. Also to be in attendance at the luncheon will be Oprah Winfrey herself, Zendaya, Nick Cannon, Ryan Coogler, and others. Acclaimed R&B artist Leon Bridges will perform.
Says the editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, Vanessa De Luca, “We are delighted to continue the tradition of honoring exceptionally talented women who are making significant contributions as creators and performers in Hollywood. At a time when the conversation about diversity in Hollywood remains prevalent, recognizing the indomitable power and presence of Tracee Ellis Ross, Debbie Allen and Nina Shaw at our annual Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon embraces an inclusive and diverse Hollywood community.”
The Black Women in Hollywood Luncheonis presented by The Lincoln Motor Company and sponsored by L’Oréal Paris, Colgate Optic White,Geico, Walmart and AT&T.