NEW YORK (AP) – The black cast members of the hit series “Orange Is the New Black” will be honored by Essence magazine at its pre-Oscars luncheon next month.
The magazine announced Wednesday that it will honor seven cast members including Uzo Aduba and Laverne Cox at its Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon on Feb. 19.
“Essence is honored to bestow the Black Women in Hollywood Vanguard Award to these talented actresses, whose brilliant performances exemplify diversity in storytelling,” Essence Editor-in-Chief Vanessa K. De Luca said in a statement. “Their groundbreaking portrayals are bringing an authentic and rarely seen narrative to the forefront of America’s consciousness.”
It is the first time the Black Women in Hollywood Award will be given to a group instead of a single person. It will also be awarded to Adrienne Moore, Danielle Brooks, Lorraine Toussaint, Samira Wiley and Vicky Jeudy of the award-winning Netflix series.
The Essence event will also honor veteran actress Regina King, British actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Oscar-nominated costume designer Ruth E. Carter. The 8th annual luncheon will take place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.