The Tamesis
Later in the show, Jurnee Smollett paid tribute to her godmother, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and reflected on the responsibilities that black women continue to bear. “Black women have always been the strength and common denominator that brings our culture together,” said Richardson-Jackson. Fashion. “We can’t drop the ball now. We have to wake up and stay awake, but that means a lot of work.”
The room also reflects the intersection of culture and politics that has long defined the event. As the ceremony began, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett received an immediate standing ovation as the cameras turned to her. Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass were also in attendance, highlighting the gathering’s broader impact beyond Hollywood.
One of the biggest moments of the afternoon was when Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler paid tribute to Zinzi Coogler and sinner. Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Hannah Beachler, Jayme Lawson, Ruth E. Carter, Shunika Terry-Jennings and Wunmi Mosaku gathered on stage to accept the honor to loud applause. (At one point, Fashion Ask guests which project this year makes them particularly proud. Not surprisingly, the answer that echoed around the table was sinner.)
The lunch brings together Hollywood faces across generations and gives friends and collaborators a chance to catch up. Kerry Washington had a passionate chat with Tyrik Withers and Chase Infiniti, whom she affectionately calls her “internet kids.” Withers also leaned into the running joke that portrayed him as the ideal fictional son of Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald. Halle Bailey was spotted chatting with Regé-Jean Page ahead of her upcoming movie You, me and Tuscany. Reality TV shows have strong representation in the room, love island Favorites Olandria, Serena Page and Chelley Bissainthe were among the crowd, as well as real housewives of beverly hills St. John of Bozoma and Garcelle Beauvais.
Family relationships were also at the forefront throughout the afternoon. Mother-daughter duos including Kandi Burruss and Riley Burruss, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Ivy Coco were in attendance, while couples Ryan and Zinzi Coogler, Nnamdi Asomugha and Kerry Washington, DeVon Franklin and Maria Castillo, Pinky Cole Hayes and Derrick Hayes and Niecy Nash and Jessica Betts walked the blue carpet. Other guests include Tia Mowry, Cynthia Bailey, Laverne Cox, Durand Bernal, Aldis Hodge, Ryan Destiny, Natasha Rothwell and Boris Kodjoe.
As the luncheon came to an end, Mia’s performance once again made the audience excited. talk with Fashionthe singer shared that fans won’t have to wait too long for new music. Her highly anticipated next album is set to be released in a few weeks, and she revealed she’ll also be touring with The Pussycat Dolls and Lil’ Kim. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the era-defining Y2K hit, and the announcement adds an extra dose of nostalgia. Ms. Jam.
For those who miss the festivities in person, the preview and luncheon will be held as stand-alone specials at The essence YouTube channel on Saturday, March 14, detailing red carpet arrivals, winners’ speeches and musical moments. By the end of the afternoon, the spirit and impact of the day was palpable. Beyond the star power and awards season excitement, the event remains one of the industry’s most meaningful gatherings, honoring tradition while elevating the next generation of talent shaping the future of Hollywood.
