Essence Honors Kerry Washington, Zinzi Coogler, and More at Black Women in Hollywood Awards

The annual ceremony celebrates a cross-generational group of performers, producers, and creative leaders.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Essence has announced the honorees for the 19th annual Black Women in Hollywood ceremony, which will celebrate a diverse group of trailblazing women in the entertainment industry. The 2026 class of honorees includes actress Kerry Washington, producer Zinzi Coogler, actress Chase Infiniti, and veteran actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson.

Why it matters

The Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black women in the entertainment industry, who have historically been underrepresented and overlooked. By honoring this esteemed group of performers, producers, and creative leaders, the ceremony aims to amplify diverse voices and narratives in Hollywood.

The details

The honorees were selected for their impressive bodies of work and their impact on the industry. Chase Infiniti is being recognized for her breakout role in the film 'One Battle After Another,' while Kerry Washington is celebrated for her acclaimed work as an actor, producer, and director. LaTanya Richardson Jackson is honored for her decades of contributions across stage and screen, as well as her civic engagement. Zinzi Coogler, the Oscar-nominated producer of 'Sinners' and founder of Proximity Media, is being recognized for her critically and culturally acclaimed projects.

  • The 19th annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood ceremony will take place on March 12, 2026 at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.
  • The pre-show will stream on Essence's official YouTube channel, featuring red-carpet coverage, celebrity interviews, and the presentation of the Essie's Choice Award and the inaugural Creators' Award.

The players

Kerry Washington

An Emmy-winning actress, producer, and director who is being honored for her impressive body of work and impact in the entertainment industry.

Zinzi Coogler

The Oscar-nominated producer of 'Sinners' and founder of Proximity Media, who is being celebrated for building critically and culturally acclaimed projects.

Chase Infiniti

A rising actress who is being recognized for her breakout performance in the film 'One Battle After Another.'

LaTanya Richardson Jackson

A veteran actress and Tony and NAACP Image Award nominee, who is being honored for her decades of contributions across stage and screen, as well as her civic engagement.

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What they’re saying

“The Essence Black Women in Hollywood ceremony is a powerful platform that celebrates the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black women in the entertainment industry. We are thrilled to honor this esteemed group of trailblazers who are changing the narrative and expanding the boundaries of what is possible in Hollywood.”

— Essence Editor-in-Chief (Essence)

What’s next

The pre-show for the Essence Black Women in Hollywood ceremony will stream on Essence's official YouTube channel on March 12, 2026, featuring red-carpet coverage, celebrity interviews, and the presentation of the Essie's Choice Award and the inaugural Creators' Award.

The takeaway

The Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the immense talent, creativity, and impact of Black women in the entertainment industry. By honoring this diverse group of honorees, the ceremony continues to amplify diverse voices, challenge traditional narratives, and inspire the next generation of trailblazers.