Hollywood Unlocked and its CEO and Founder Jason Lee hosted the 2023 Impact Awards last nights in Los Angeles, honoring role models, celebrities, and icons who have had a lasting impact on culture.
The ceremony began with a captivating performance by Grammy-nominated singer Chanté Moore, followed by remarks from actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, who returned as host for the second year.
Evan Ross presented the first Impact Awards honor, detailing accolades for the Community Award to Catherine Brewton, Vice President of Creative at Broadcast Music, Inc.
Tiffany Haddish presented Image Architect Law Roach with the Innovator Award, which was followed by a sultry performance by R&B singer Muni Long, who sang her hit “Hrs & Hrs.”
Chlöe Bailey was presented with the Fearlessness Award by actor Sarunas Jackson.
Later, a recorded speech from Vice President Kamala Harris was played in which she thanked Jason Lee for his work in advancing and protecting the culture through the Impact Awards, which honor leaders who shape our culture and our future.
Grammy-winning singer Macy Gray read a recorded acceptance speech from Whoopi Goldberg, who received the Social Impact award, and was followed by Tyrese Gibson, who presented the Icon Award to Babyface, a 12x Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer.
Chrisean Rock surprised the audience by performing “Vibe.” In honor of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary, rapper Joyner Lucas presented the Culture Award to the influential late rapper Tupac, who was accepted on his behalf by his sister Sekyiwa ‘Set’ Shakur, who stated, “A voice for the culture is not just a trend, but a call to action.”
Jonathan McReynolds, a Grammy-winning gospel singer, closed the show with a performance before Jason Lee joined Tiffany Haddish to say goodnight and thank the audience.
The official launch of Jason Lee’s Hollywood Cares Foundation, which aims to provide resources and assistance to communities in need, with a particular focus on youth services, was a highlight of the evening.
The foundation raised more than $100,000, beginning with a large check presented by Deion Taylor on behalf of Robert F. Smith and Hidden Empire, and continuing with a contribution from the Black Lives Matter Global Foundation.
Halle Bailey, Yvette Nicole Brown, Law Roach, Fat Joe, Floyd Mayweather, Eric Bellinger, Chrisean Rock, and Michael Blackson were also among the notable guests.
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