On Feb. 26, 2025, the Sunset Room in Hollywood radiated with elegance and celebration as the 15th Annual Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood awards ceremony recognized the outstanding contributions of Black men in film and television. The collaboration between Lexus and UPTOWN Magazine has been a cornerstone during Oscar Week for more than a decade, and is dedicated to honoring Black creatives whose contributions might otherwise go unrecognized. This year’s exclusive, star-studded gala honored four distinguished individuals: Blair Underwood, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Omar J. Dorsey, and J. Alphonse Nicholson. The festivities were hosted, once again, by the talented Tai Beauchamp and Chris Spencer.
The honorees and their achievements
- Blair Underwood: Awarded the Legacy Achievement Award, Underwood’s illustrious career spans over four decades, with notable roles in productions such as L.A. Law, Quantico, and A Soldier’s Play on Broadway. His dedication to portraying complex Black characters has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
- Clifford “Method Man” Smith: Receiving the Vanguard Award, Smith has seamlessly transitioned from a music legend to a critically acclaimed actor. His performances in Power Book II: Ghost, The Wire, and The Cobbler have expanded the scope of Black representation in Hollywood.
- Omar J. Dorsey: Honored with the Empowerment in Entertainment Award, Dorsey is celebrated for his impactful roles in When They See Us and Queen Sugar. Beyond the screen, he advocates for underrepresented narratives, fostering inclusivity in the industry.
- J. Alphonse Nicholson: Awarded the Rising Icon Award, Nicholson has captivated audiences with his portrayal of Lil Murda in P-Valley. He made his directorial debut with FREIGHT: The Five Incarnations of Abel Green. His compelling performances signal a transformative future in entertainment.
The 2025 Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood event not only celebrated the achievements of its honorees, but also underscored the ongoing commitment to recognizing and uplifting Black talent in the entertainment industry. The evening commenced with a glamorous red-carpet reception, where approximately 250 guests graced the event, exuding sophistication and style. Notable figures in attendance included Mario Van Peebles, , Joe Torry, Guy Torry, Warren G, Salli Richardson Whitfield, Dondré Whitfield, Naturi Naughton, Rosci Diaz, Novi Brown, and Holly Robinson Peete, who showcased a vibrant array of fashion, reflecting the diversity and elegance of Black Hollywood. The awards presentation that followed was filled with heartfelt speeches and moments of camaraderie, culminating in an exclusive after party.
This year’s event was notably supported by Cîroc, Homestead Entertainment, and Le Fête Wine Co., whose contributions were instrumental in bringing the celebration to life.
Len Burnett, co-founder of UPTOWN Magazine, emphasized the event’s significance, “For over 15 years, UPTOWN has proudly celebrated Black excellence in Hollywood, shining a spotlight on the trailblazing creatives and executives—both in front of and behind the camera—whose contributions to film and television may not always receive the recognition they deserve.”
Lisa McQueen, senior manager at Lexus Advertising and Media, added, “This year’s Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood is not just an awards ceremony, it’s an opportunity to uplift, recognize, and celebrate Black men in Hollywood who have challenged boundaries and inspired generations.”
See more star-studded photos in the gallery below.
SocietEye: The 15th Annual Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood
The 2025 Lexus UPTOWN Honors Hollywood awards ceremony celebrated the outstanding contributions of Blair Underwood, Clifford “Method Man” Smith, Omar J. Dorsey, and J. Alphonse Nicholson.
