(PHOTOS) Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Patti LaBelle, Taye Diggs and More Celebrate Black Excellence at Inaugural The Grio Awards

Black excellence and its champions were on full display recently at the inaugural The Grio Awards, which celebrates excellence in film, music, television, philanthropy, social justice and more.

The brainchild of media mogul Byron Allen and his Allen Media Group, The Grio Awards was co-hosted by Sheryl Underwood and Taye Diggs and featured a number of performances in addition to the awards. 

Among the performers at the event included Yolanda Adams, Tyrese, Fantasia and Patti LaBelle, who was also honored with the “Music Icon Award.”

Director/Mogul Tyler Perry was recognized with the “Icon” award, while legendary television producer Norman Lear received the Champion Award. Comedian Dave Chappelle was also honored with the “Cultural Icon” award.

Other honorees include Kenan Thompson (Comedy Icon Award), Ben Crump (Justice Icon Award), Alena Analeigh McQuarter (Young Icon Award), billionaire Robert F. Smith (Philanthropy Award), Allyson Felix (Sports Icon Award), Don Peebles (Business Icon Award), Queen Latifah (Television Icon Award) and Jennifer Hudson (Trailblazer Icon Award).

“I created theGrio Awards to celebrate and amplify African American excellence and the incredible champions from other communities who truly support us,” said Allen, who owns the African American-focused news, lifestyle, sports and entertainment platform theGrio that spurred the awards ceremony.

Held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, The Grio Awards aired on broadcast television stations nationwide, theGrio network and other Allen Media Group television and digital platforms. Check your local listings for replay information. 

See Human Nature’s photos from the 2022 Grio Awards below.