Black Love Shines at the 2026 ABFF Honors: Ryan Coogler & More Couples

The annual celebration of Black excellence in film and television also highlighted the power of partnership.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The 8th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors, held on February 16th at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, was a celebration of not just cinematic achievement, but also Black love and partnership. The event showcased several high-profile couples, including filmmakers Ryan and Zinzi Coogler, actors Dondré and Salli Richardson-Whitfield, comedians Kevin and Melissa Fredericks, and ABFF co-founders Jeff and Nicole Friday. The event also featured appearances by Grammy-winning singer Anthony Hamilton.

Why it matters

The ABFF Honors event has become a platform to recognize not only the professional accomplishments of Black creatives, but also to highlight the personal relationships that often serve as the foundation for their success. By shining a light on these couples, the event celebrates the power of partnership and the ways in which shared dreams and unwavering support can fuel artistic and professional achievements.

The details

The Coogler couple, who met as college sweethearts, have navigated the complexities of Hollywood together, with Zinzi often championing Ryan's vision from the very beginning. Married since 2016, they have collaborated on projects like the Crumb franchise, and both were recognized for their work on the film Sinners. Dondré Whitfield and Salli Richardson-Whitfield, married since 2002, represent a lasting bond in an industry often marked by change, with Salli transitioning into a celebrated director and producer, and Dondré continuing to thrive as an actor, author, and podcast host. Comedian KevOnStage (Kevin Fredericks) and his wife, Melissa Fredericks, brought their warmth and authenticity to the red carpet, demonstrating the power of partnership in the digital age. At the heart of the ABFF's success is the enduring partnership of co-founders Jeff and Nicole Friday, who have dedicated decades to creating opportunities for Black filmmakers and storytellers.

  • The 8th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors was held on February 16th, 2026.
  • The ABFF was founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday.

The players

Ryan Coogler

A filmmaker who was recognized for his work on the film Sinners.

Zinzi Coogler

A producer who has credits on projects like the Creed franchise and was also recognized for her work on the film Sinners.

Dondré Whitfield

An actor, author, and podcast host who has been married to Salli Richardson-Whitfield since 2002.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield

A celebrated director and producer, with recent credits including Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty and The Gilded Age.

Jeff Friday

The co-founder of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), which has become a cornerstone event recognizing excellence in Black storytelling.

Nicole Friday

The co-founder of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), who has dedicated decades to creating opportunities for Black filmmakers and storytellers.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The ABFF Honors event has become a platform to celebrate not only the professional achievements of Black creatives, but also the personal relationships that often serve as the foundation for their success. By highlighting the power of partnership, the event demonstrates the ways in which shared dreams, unwavering support, and creative collaboration can fuel artistic and professional accomplishments.