The Critics Choice Association will host its first-ever Celebration of LGBTQ+ Cinema and Television on June 7, 2024, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. This special event aims to spotlight significant contributions from the LGBTQ+ community in both film and television, in front of and behind the camera.
LGBTQ+ actress and comedian Sherry Cola, known for her roles in “Joy Ride” and “Shortcomings,” as well as her performance in Freeform’s “Good Trouble,” is set to host the event.
The CCA has announced the list of honorees that includes actor Nathan Lane, who will receive the Career Achievement Award for his acting career spanning stage and screen roles such as “The Birdcage” and “The Producers.” Showrunner Abe Sylvia is set to receive the Showrunner Award for his work on Apple TV+’s comedy “Palm Royale.”
Additional honorees include Carl Clemons-Hopkins, awarded for their supporting role in “Hacks,” and Chris Perfetti, who will take home the Breakthrough Performance Award for his work in “Abbott Elementary.” Fernando Carsa will be recognized as a Rising Star for his role in “Acapulco,” and veteran actor and activist George Takei will be honored with the Social Justice Award for his lifelong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and racial justice.
The event will also recognize industry leaders such as Henry R. Muñoz III, who will receive the Industry Leadership Award for his advocacy and philanthropic efforts.
One of the event’s sponsors, STARZ, will present Michaela Jaé Rodriguez with a special designation during her Vanguard Award recognition.
The gala is part of the CCA’s ongoing initiative to celebrate underrepresented talent, following other events like the Celebration of Latino Cinema and Television, the Celebration of Asian Pacific Cinema and Television, and the Celebration of Black Cinema and Television.
“Now more than ever, LGBTQ+ representation matters,” said CCA members and event co-programmers Jerry Nunn & Andrew Freund in a press release. “We are so proud to be part of an organization that honors diversity and celebrates the achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.”
Following the in-person celebration, the event will be available for streaming on HereTV.