A Night Spotlighting Black Excellence in Film and Television
By Angela Redding | Hollywood Beat magazine | March 14, 2026
During Oscars week in Hollywood, influential actors and filmmakers gathered at the Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood celebration. The event honored artists who have shaped film, television, and culture.
This year’s honorees included Mario Van Peebles, Taye Diggs, Wood Harris, and Omar Benson Miller. Each received awards that reflect their impact on storytelling and representation in entertainment.
The celebration took place March 11 at the Sunset Room in Hollywood, hosted by Lexus and UPTOWN Magazine during Academy Awards week.
Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood
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Recognizing Careers That Shaped Modern Black Storytelling
Each honoree represents decades of work across film, television, and theater.
Mario Van Peebles received the Icon of Achievement Award. His career spans directing, writing, producing, and acting, with notable works like New Jack City and Baadasssss!, which tells the story of his father, Melvin Van Peebles. He also appeared in Ali and the series Wu-Tang: An American Saga.
Taye Diggs earned the Impact and Excellence Award for his roles in How Stella Got Her Groove Back, The Best Man franchise, and Rent. He also appeared in the series All American and Kevin Hill.
Wood Harris received the Fearless Trailblazer Award. He is known for his roles in The Wire and Creed, and also starred in Remember the Titans and the upcoming One Battle After Another.
Omar Benson Miller received the Amplified Impact Award. His credits include 8 Mile, the HBO series Ballers, and Sinners.
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A Celebration Hosted by Familiar Faces
The evening brought together Hollywood talent and industry leaders. Actor, comedian, writer, and producer Chris Spencer served as host alongside media personality Tai Beauchamp.
The event has run for over 16 years, recognizing Black creatives and executives who shape culture and expand stories on screen.
A Legacy of Honoring Influential Voices
Past honorees highlight the event’s appeal, including artists like Method Man, Blair Underwood, Cedric the Entertainer, Boris Kodjoe, Questlove, and Ava DuVernay.
The evening highlighted the impact of Black storytellers shaping Hollywood and inspiring future filmmakers.
Hollywood Beat magazine
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-HB | Hollywood Beat magazine
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