Emmy Award-winning actor, producer, and director Kerry Washington will serve as Ambassador for the 31st annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), organizers announced Tuesday. The festival will take place May 20–23, 2027, in Los Angeles.
Washington recently received the Excellence in the Arts Award at the ABFF Honors. As Ambassador, she will support ABFF’s mission to champion Black storytellers, expand career opportunities for emerging talent, and build a vibrant creative community across film and television. Her appointment comes as the festival enters its fourth decade following its 30th-anniversary celebration.
The 2027 festival will feature film screenings, conversations, industry events, and cultural experiences, continuing ABFF’s longstanding focus on connecting artists, entertainment professionals, and audiences.
“ABFF has spent three decades championing Black storytellers and helping their voices be heard,” Washington said. “I’m honored to serve as Ambassador as the festival makes its move to Los Angeles, where it will open even more doors for the next generation of talent.”
ABFF Returns to Los Angeles
Nicole Friday, president of NICE CROWD, said Washington has maintained a longstanding connection to ABFF and shares the organization’s commitment to creating opportunities for artists.
“Washington embodies the festival’s emphasis on community and creative opportunity,” Jeff Friday, Founder of ABFF and CEO of NICE CROWD, said in a statement.
Washington became widely known for her role as Olivia Pope on ABC’s Scandal, becoming the first Black woman since 1974 to lead a network television drama. Her performance earned two Emmy nominations, a Golden Globe nomination, a SAG Award nomination, and two NAACP Image Awards.
She last appeared at ABFF in 2024 for the season two world premiere of Hulu’s Unprisoned, in which she starred and served as executive producer. Previous ABFF ambassadors have included Regina King, Halle Berry, Tracee Ellis Ross, Idris Elba, Regina Hall, and Taraji P. Henson.
Festival passes for the 2027 ABFF are now available, offering reservation access to eligible screenings, conversations,
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