The Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards 2026 was a star-studded event filled with glamour and recognition for those making a significant impact in the entertainment industry. Among the notable honorees for the 6th annual Impact Awards were: Patti LaBelle; Tyler Perry; Kehlani; Kirk Franklin; Meagan Good; RZA; Bozoma Saint John; and Justin Jones.
RELATED: RZA Accepts Culture Award At 6th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards
Taking place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA on Friday, June 5, Hollywood’s biggest night celebrated some of the industry’s most influential figures.
Patti LaBelle, GRAMMY Hall of Fame singer, songwriter, actress and “Godmother of Soul” received the inaugural Patti LaBelle Legacy Award.
Receiving the Innovator Award was film and TV multi-hyphenate Tyler Perry. While accepting the Fearlessness Award, 2x GRAMMY Award winning singer-songwriter Kehlani Meanwhile, music icon, innovator, and 20x GRAMMY Award winner Kirk Franklin accepted the Inspiration Award.
Receiving the Spirit Award was actress, director, producer, entrepreneur and advocate Meagan Good. While receiving the Culture Award, music legend, filmmaker, producer, director, and writer RZA reflected on his legacy and contributions to the culture.
Additionally, Bozoma Saint John, Hall of Fame-inducted Marketing Executive, Author, and Entrepreneur, accepted the Pioneer Award. Finally, Tennessee State Representative Justin Jones accepted the Community Award.
RELATED: Meagan Good Receives The “Spirit” Award At The Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards
While returning for its sixth year, the Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards — pre-recorded and later airing on The Zeus Network — featured performances by: Chlöe Bailey; Joyner Lucas; Kierra Sheard;; Jekalyn Carr; Donald Lawrence; and Sheléa.
Returning for a second year in a row, 13-time GRAMMY Award–winning artist, producer, and songwriter Babyface served as musical director. And for a fifth year in a row, Emmy, GRAMMY, and NAACP Image Award–winning actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish hosted the ceremony.
Additionally, this year’s presenters included: Angie Martinez, Eva Marcille, Tamika Mallory, Vic Mensa, Omari Hardwick, MC Lyte, Kathy Hilton, Chanel Ayan, Tika Sumpter, and Serayah McNeill.
RELATED: Justin Jones Receives the “Community” Award at the Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards
About the Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards
Founded by Hollywood Unlocked CEO Jason Lee, the Impact Awards serve as a platform to honor trailblazers in music, film, media, politics, and beyond, with a specific focus on uplifting the Black community.
Past HU Impact Awards recipients have included luminaries like: Christian Louboutin; Da Brat; Chlöe Bailey; Floyd Mayweather; Lizzo; Cardi B; Fat Joe; Whoopi Goldberg; Keke Palmer; Sharon Stone; Jonathan Majors; Jasmine Crockett; and more. All of these honorees have left an indelible mark on their respective industries.
Furthermore, a portion of proceeds from this year’s event is benefiting the Hollywood Cares Foundation. The nonprofit organization, founded by Jason Lee, supports underserved youth through leadership, civic engagement, and personal development programming.
