Critics Choice Honors Tyler Perry, Malcolm D. Lee, and More at 7th Annual Black Cinema & Television Celebration

The Critics Choice Association's seventh annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television will honor Black talent, including Tyler Perry, Malcolm D. Lee, John David Washington, Wendell Pierce, Michael Rainey Jr., Jharrel Jerome and Steve McQueen.

Hosted by comedian Jay Pharoah, the event will take place on December 9 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, and it will premiere on Starz in January 2025.

Tyler Perry will be celebrated with the Icon Award. From his groundbreaking Tyler Perry Studios to his achievements across film, television and theater, Perry has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. His prolific career includes 24 feature films, 20 stage plays, 17 television shows, and two New York Times bestselling books.

Malcolm D. Lee will receive the Career Achievement Award for his work as a writer-director. From Girls Trip to Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins and Roll Bounce, Lee has consistently brought fresh, authentic narratives to the screen. With The Best Man franchise reaching its 25th anniversary this year, Lee’s films remain classics that have reshaped representation in Hollywood.

John David Washington will be honored with the Actor Award – Film for his portrayal in The Piano Lesson. Critics have been buzzing about Washington’s performance in this adaptation of August Wilson’s celebrated play, which comes to Netflix on November 22.

Wendell Pierce, celebrated for his roles in The Wire and Jack Ryan, and now widely recognized for Suits, will be honored for his impactful performances on TV. His portrayal of complex, layered characters has earned him critical acclaim and deepened the narrative for Black actors on screen.

Michael Rainey Jr., who stars as Tariq St. Patrick in Power Book II: Ghost, will receive the Rising Star Award – Series. The Power Universe, spearheaded by Curis "50 Cent" Jackson, has earned a loyal following and Rainey Jr. has been able to latch on, marking him as a major talent in the next generation of Black actors.

Jharrel Jerome will receive the Breakthrough Actor Award for his performance in Amazon MGM Studios’ Unstoppable, which debuts in theaters on December 6. Known for his Emmy-winning role in When They See Us, Jerome continues to captivate audiences with his emotional range and authenticity, especially in projects like Moonlight and I'm a Virgo.

Steve McQueen will be honored with the Director Award for his recent work on Blitz, a wartime drama set in London during World War II. Currently in select theaters and then to Apple TV on November 22, Blitz follows the story of 9-year-old George, who, along with many other children, is sent away from the city for safety as the bombing intensifies.