AAFCA Honored Broadway Stars in New York
The African American Film Critics Association celebrated theater professionals at its annual luncheon.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Awards
The African American Film Critics Association hosted its 5th Annual Luncheon at Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse in New York City to honor notable Broadway theater professionals. The event recognized several artists for their significant contributions to storytelling and entertainment.
Why it matters
The ceremony serves to highlight the achievements of Black performers and storytellers within the Broadway theater community. These awards recognize professional excellence and long-term impact on the arts in New York.
The 5th annual luncheon recognized career milestones, including the 34-year tenure of anchor Cheryl Wills. The event honored recipients across legacy, excellence, beacon, and horizon categories.
The players
André De Shields
He is a veteran stage actor and performer who received the Legacy Award for his contributions to theater.
Brandon J. Dirden
He is an actor and 2026 Tony Award nominee for Waiting for Godot who received the Salute to Excellence Award.
Jasmine Cephas Jones
She is an actress and recipient of the Horizon Award for her contributions to storytelling.
Cheryl Wills
She is a journalist and host at Spectrum News NY1 who was recognized with the Beacon Award for her 34-year career.
African American Film Critics Association
This professional organization advocates for Black talent in media and hosted the luncheon event.
The details
Award recipients included André De Shields, who received the Legacy Award, and Brandon J. Dirden, who was honored with the Salute to Excellence Award. Additional honorees included Jasmine Cephas Jones, who earned the Horizon Award, and Cheryl Wills, who received the Beacon Award.
Timeline
The 5th Annual AAFCA Luncheon occurred on October 12, 2026.
Culture Shift
This event marks a continuation of the 5th Annual AAFCA Luncheon tradition that elevates diverse voices in mainstream theater. It follows an industry trend of organizations formalizing recognition programs for veteran performers alongside emerging stars.
The luncheon brought notable theater figures to the Broadway district, highlighting the area's ongoing cultural significance. Residents and visitors may recognize these honorees in current and upcoming local productions.
The takeaway
These awards emphasize the importance of consistent representation for Black professionals in high-profile theater roles. Readers interested in theater history can look to the careers of these honorees to understand the standard for excellence on the New York stage.
Further reading
For more on industry honors, visit the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
