The annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheon took place at The Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, honoring women shaping film, television, and culture. Attendees included stars like Zendaya and Kerry Washington, with tributes and performances highlighting mentorship and legacy. The event underscored the supportive spirit among Black women in entertainment.
The Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheon occurred on a Thursday afternoon at The Fairmont Century Plaza ballroom in Los Angeles, just days before a major entertainment weekend. Hosted by Marsai Martin and featuring comedic moments from Deon Cole, the gathering drew Hollywood's rising and established talents.
Zendaya arrived in a vintage Eugene Alexander dress, previously worn by Sarah Jessica Parker and Whitney Houston. Sheryl Lee Ralph commanded admiration from attendees of various generations. A surprise performance by Tyrese energized the crowd early on.
Tributes formed the event's core. Teyana Taylor honored Chase Infiniti, her co-star in One Battle After Another. Infiniti expressed gratitude, saying, “I feel so honored to even be an honoree today. I’m seeing so many people who I have created incredible relationships with, and people I look up to, so I’m very excited to be here.”
Delroy Lindo celebrated Kerry Washington, who first received this honor in 2012, the year Scandal premiered. Washington reflected on her initial nervousness: “I was nervous to stand up here because I thought it was about me. I felt this outsized stress and pressure. I thought, ‘I have to get this right so it’s not another 40 years before they give any of us a shot.’” She noted the supportive atmosphere: “There was no spirit of competition in the air. There was love. There was generosity. You weren’t waiting for me to fail. You weren’t praying for me to fail. And feeling that set something free in me.”
Jurnee Smollett paid tribute to her godmother, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, who emphasized Black women's role: “Black women have always been the strength and the common denominator for our culture to hold it together. And we cannot drop that ball right now. We have to wake up and stay woke, but it means a lot of work.”
Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler presented the Luminary Spotlight to Zinzi Coogler and the women of Sinners: Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Hannah Beachler, Jayme Lawson, Ruth E. Carter, Shunika Terry-Jennings, and Wunmi Mosaku.
Political figures like Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, who received a standing ovation, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass attended, highlighting the event's cultural and political intersections. Family and couples, including Kerry Washington with Nnamdi Asomugha and Sheryl Lee Ralph with Ivy Coco, mingled alongside stars like Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page.
Mýa closed with a performance and announced her upcoming album and a tour with The Pussycat Dolls and Lil’ Kim, marking the 25th anniversary of Lady Marmalade. The pre-show and luncheon will air on Essence’s YouTube channel on March 14, 2026.
