Jamie Lee Curtis, Tessa Thompson and Regina King will be among the honorees at this year’s WIF Honors taking place at the Beverly Hilton hotel on Nov. 6.
WIF – previously known as Women in Film — was founded in 1973 and strives to advocate for and advance the careers of women working in front of and behind the camera (according to its website). Presented under the theme of “Unity,” the awards recognize the shared commitment to equity, sustainability and stories that represent how human experiences can transform culture.
A press release stated that the annual gala will also honor Mara Brock Akil, Maude Apatow, Dede Gardner, Gabrielle Nadig alongside Nia DaCosta and Judy Blume, who will be presented with their awards in absentia. The evening will also feature a special appearance by comedian Atsuko Okatsuka.
- The Crystal Award for Advocacy in Film will be awarded to Thompson, DaCosta, Gardner and Nadig for their upcoming film “Hedda”. The award recognizes individuals who are creating opportunities for women in the screen industries.
- The Crystal Award for Advocacy in Television will be awarded to Akil, alongside King and Blume, for their collaboration on the popular Netflix series, “Forever.”
- Two-time Oscar winner Jane Fonda will present Curtis with the Jane Fonda Humanitarian Award in recognition of her decorated acting career, philanthropic efforts and advocacy for human rights and equality.
- The WIF Max Mara Face of the Future Award, which recognizes a rising star who embodies style and grace, will be presented to Apatow for her work on “Euphoria,” “Poetic License” and co-founding the production company JewelBox Pictures.
WIF CEO Kirsten Schaffer said in a statement: “This year’s WIF honorees exemplify how artists are using their voices to drive change. From rising talent like Maude Apatow to legends like Jamie Lee Curtis and Mara Brock Akil, their inspiring work, both on and off screen, reminds us that solidarity and connectedness are what will protect us, and our ability to tell stories that reflect our full humanity.”
WIF Honors co-chairs Victoria Alonso and Tracy McKnight said in a statement: “WIF Honors is a celebration of unity across generations, disciplines, and stories, and this year’s honorees reflect that. As a collective, we stand united against division, our commitment to fair pay, safe working conditions, and the right to express and create freely. We believe in the power of unified action to transform our industry and are proud to celebrate those leading the way.”
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