Chris Rock, Quinta Brunson, Jaafar Jackson, Chiwetel Ejiofor Among Honorees For 9th Critics Choice Celebration Of Black Cinema & TV

Debbie Allen, Chris Rock, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Quinta Brunson are among the esteemed individuals set to receive accolades at the Critics Choice Association's ninth annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television. The event, hosted by comedian Roy Wood Jr., is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on November 16, 2026, with a subsequent online premiere on the CCA's YouTube channel in December.

The Critics Choice Association recently announced the full list of honorees on Tuesday, expressing commitment to recognizing remarkable talent in Black cinema and television during a challenging period for cultural representation.

Debbie Allen will be presented with the Icon Award in recognition of her extensive career spanning television, film, and theater. Allen's recent return to "A Different World" as executive producer and Dr. Langhorne further underscores her continued impact on the industry. Chris Rock will receive the Director Award for his film "Misty Green," while Quinta Brunson, creator and star of the Emmy-winning ABC sitcom "Abbott Elementary," will be honored with the Groundbreaker Award.

Chiwetel Ejiofor will be recognized with the Vanguard Award for his contribution to the horror film "Backrooms." Other notable honorees include Lamorne Morris, Katori Hall, Jaafar Jackson, Anthony Mackie, and Sophie Okonedo. The complete list of nominees is available on the CCA's website.