Hollywood Unlocked, under the dynamic leadership of its CEO and Founder Jason Lee, hosted the 4th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, an evening dedicated to recognizing role models, celebrities, and icons who have made a significant impact on culture.
The event was filled with unforgettable moments, honoring luminaries such as Cardi B, Jonathan Majors, Fat Joe, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, Christian Louboutin, Da Brat, Ben Crump, and Sharon Stone. The evening was graced by numerous celebrities, including Evan Ross, Omarion, GASHI, Floyd Mayweather, Trina, Meagan Good, Babyface, Eric Bellinger, Yvette Nicole Brown, Claudia Jordan, Lemuel Plummer, Bobby Lytes, and Brittney Elena.
Comedian and Emmy Award-winning actor Tiffany Haddish returned as the host for the third consecutive year, delighting the audience with her signature comedic flair. Fat Joe was honored with the Culture Award, presented by Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton, who humorously remarked, “He’s got more hits than I have hats. And trust me, I’ve got a lot.” Da Brat and her wife Jessica Harris-Dupart were honored with the Spirit Award, presented by Disney channel alum Raven-Symoné. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett was presented with the Social Impact Award by reality TV star Marlo Hampton.
Crockett expressed gratitude for being recognized for her dedication to representing her constituents, saying, “When people say you are going to be their representation, you really should do your best to make sure…you represent them. I am grateful to be acknowledged for simply doing my job.”
Attorney Ben Crump, a champion of civil rights, received the Community Award from Jasmine Crockett, who referred to him as her mentor. In an endearing moment, six-year-old Malcolm Bell, Jason Lee’s “official” campaign manager for his Stockton political run, took the stage to encourage everyone to vote.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 21: (L-R) Tiffany Haddish, Sharon Stone, Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good attends the 4th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards at The Beverly Hilton on June 21, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Jason Lee/Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards)
Jonathan Majors was recognized with the Perseverance Award, presented by renowned spiritual teacher Iyanla Vanzant. Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Karen Clark Sheard, accompanied by a choir, delivered an uplifting gospel performance to show support for Majors before he took the stage to receive his award; moved to tears, Majors delivered a powerful speech addressing the criminal justice system and the struggles he faced.
He stated, “When I was taken away in handcuffs, I didn’t feel like the Jonathan Majors I knew, the Yale graduate, the actor from Creed or Kang. I felt like a small, powerless Black man. Despite the support and evidence in my favor, I knew I was in serious trouble simply because of who I am.” He continued, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the personal darkness he had to overcome as he thanked actress and girlfriend Meagan Good for her relentless support.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 21: (L-R) Iyanla Vanzant, Cardi B, Christian Louboutin and Jason Lee, Founder, Hollywood Unlocked attend the 4th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards at The Beverly Hilton on June 21, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Jason Lee/Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards)
The honors continued as Cardi B received the Inspiration Award from Jason Lee. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she highlighted the unique challenges faced by female rappers, saying, “Female rappers have it worse than some pop stars. We have to be perfect all the time, and I struggle with being my own worst critic.”
Christian Louboutin, the iconic shoe designer, was awarded the Innovator Award by Hollywood legend Sharon Stone. She praised Louboutin as a visionary, noting, “Tonight we pay homage to a true visionary…those soles are the Rolls Royce of stilettos.”
In a surprise twist, Sharon Stone was also honored, receiving the Icon Award from Tiffany Haddish. Stone reflected on her career and the choice to use her fame for positive change, saying, “Early in my career I made a choice to use whatever fame I gained to make a positive change in this world. I am honored to have been recognized here today in a room so full of love.” Keke Wyatt closed out the evening with a riveting performance of Patti LaBelle’s, “If Only You Knew.”
The 2024 Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards was a night to remember, celebrating the achievements and contributions of individuals who have significantly shaped our culture. Jason Lee and Hollywood Unlocked continue to inspire and influence, moving beyond ‘cancel culture’ to recognize resilience, innovation, and positive social impact.
