The stars aligned at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on June 5 as Hollywood Unlocked hosted its sixth annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards, bringing together some of the biggest names in entertainment, music, business and philanthropy for an evening celebrating cultural influence, leadership and community impact.
Hosted by Emmy, Grammy and NAACP Image Award-winning actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, the star-studded ceremony honored individuals whose contributions continue to shape culture both on and off the screen. Haddish kept the audience entertained throughout the night with her signature humor, playful interactions with guests and a memorable runway “walk-off” with model and actress Eva Marcille that quickly became one of the evening’s standout moments.
The 2026 Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards featured musical direction from 13-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Babyface. Grammy-nominated singer, actress and producer Chlöe Bailey delivered a powerful performance, while gospel icon Yolanda Adams, R&B singer Chante Moore and award-winning artist Kirk Franklin were among the evening’s celebrated guests and honorees.
One of the night’s most inspiring moments came when marketing executive and business leader Bozoma Saint John accepted the Pioneer Award. Saint John reflected on often being the only woman in the room throughout her career while emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for future generations of women leaders.
Singer-songwriter Kehlani was also recognized among the evening’s honorees and delivered one of the most heartfelt speeches of the night. Reflecting on her childhood, Kehlani shared that when her mother was incarcerated, she had only two albums to listen to — one by Keyshia Cole and one by Kirk Franklin. The emotional story culminated in a deeply personal moment as she publicly thanked Franklin in person for the impact his music had on her life during a difficult time.
Franklin later accepted the Inspiration Award and delivered a moving speech centered on faith, gratitude and perseverance. His remarks resonated throughout the ballroom as he encouraged attendees to remain steadfast in their beliefs and continue pursuing their purpose.
The ceremony’s highest honors recognized two entertainment industry icons whose influence spans generations. Media mogul Tyler Perry received the Innovator Award for his groundbreaking contributions to film, television and entrepreneurship. Throughout the evening, presenters and attendees referenced Perry’s remarkable impact on Hollywood and his commitment to creating opportunities for diverse voices in entertainment.
Music legend Patti LaBelle received the Legacy Award and was met with a standing ovation upon her arrival. Guests rose to their feet as the Grammy-winning icon entered the ballroom, celebrating a career that has left an indelible mark on music, culture and entertainment.
The Beverly Hilton ballroom was filled with notable celebrities and culture leaders, including Jonathan Majors, Da Brat, Meagan Good, Andra Day, Evan Ross, Eva Marcille and others who gathered to celebrate the night’s honorees and support meaningful causes.
Beyond recognizing excellence in entertainment, the event highlighted the continued growth of Jason Lee’s Hollywood Cares Foundation. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering underserved youth in Black and Brown communities through leadership development, civic engagement and personal growth initiatives. Guests generously supported the foundation throughout the evening, helping further its mission of creating opportunities and resources for future generations.
More than an awards show, the Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards has evolved into a premier celebration of Black excellence, cultural impact and community leadership. As the event continues to grow, it remains a powerful platform honoring the visionaries, innovators and changemakers shaping the future of entertainment and beyond.
Photo Credit: Arnold Turner Getty Images for Hollywood Unlocked
By Kinya Claiborne & Nicole Van De Walle, STYLE & SOCIETY
