Black Love and Celebration at the 2026 American Black Film Festival Honors

Los Angeles, CA – February 16, 2026, marked a vibrant celebration of Black achievement and love at the 8th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors. The event, held at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, showcased not only the accomplishments of Black filmmakers and storytellers but also the enduring power of partnership and romance within the entertainment industry.

A Legacy of Black Storytelling

Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, the American Black Film Festival has become a cornerstone for Black creatives, providing a platform for emerging talent and honoring established voices. As an extension of this mission, the ABFF Honors specifically recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to film and television.

Couples on the Red Carpet

This year’s ABFF Honors saw a beautiful display of Black love on the red carpet, with several notable couples attending the event. These pairings represented a spectrum of relationships, from long-term marriages to newer connections, all united by a shared passion for creativity and collaboration.

Ryan and Zinzi Coogler

Ryan Coogler and Zinzi Coogler, a Hollywood power couple, were among the attendees. The pair, who met during their undergraduate years at California State University, Sacramento, have built both a family and a successful film career together. Zinzi is a producer with credits on projects like entries in the Creed franchise and Ryan has often acknowledged her unwavering support throughout his journey. Zinzi was also honored at the 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event for her contributions to film, including Sinners.

Dondré Whitfield and Salli Richardson-Whitfield

Married since 2002, actors Dondré Whitfield and Salli Richardson-Whitfield continue to be a shining example of enduring love. The couple met while working on the sitcom Between Brothers and have since built a strong family foundation, raising a daughter, Parker, and a son, Dre. While Dondré has expanded his career into authorship and podcasting, appearing on shows like Queen Sugar and The Upshaws, Salli has transitioned into producing and directing, with recent projects including Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, The Gilded Age, and Task.

Kevin and Melissa Fredericks

Comedian Kevin Fredericks (KevOnStage) and his wife, Melissa Fredericks (MrsKevOnStage), brought their warmth and transparency to the ABFF Honors. Married since college, the couple have built a brand rooted in faith and humor, expanding their creative empire while maintaining a strong family life.

Lance and Rebecca Gross

Actor Lance Gross and his wife, Rebecca Gross, a respected stylist, also graced the red carpet. Married since 2015, the couple prioritize their relationship amidst busy schedules, making time for date nights and continued investment in their marriage. They are parents to two children.

Jeff and Nicole Friday

Beyond the celebrated entertainers, Jeff and Nicole Friday, the co-founders of the American Black Film Festival, were also in attendance. Their decades-long partnership has been instrumental in creating a platform dedicated to elevating Black filmmakers and storytellers, building a lasting cultural legacy.

Michael Jai White and Gillian White

Actor Michael Jai White and his wife, Gillian White, both actors and action film enthusiasts, were also present. The couple, married since 2015, met in 1997 and have co-starred in films like The Outlaw Johnny Black and Capture Back.

Anthony Hamilton

Grammy Award-winning singer Anthony Hamilton was also spotted at the celebration with a date. Hamilton divorced his wife, Tarshá Hamilton, in 2015 after 10 years of marriage and has maintained a degree of privacy regarding his personal life.

Celebrating a Decade of Honors

Hosted by comedian KevOnStage, the 10th Annual ABFF Honors celebrated legacy, resilience, and optimism within the Black film and television industry. The event underscored the importance of Black representation and the power of collaboration in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.