Dwayne Johnson, known worldwide for his electrifying presence in entertainment, is set to receive one of the most prestigious honors at the upcoming 8th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors in February 2026. The global superstar, beloved actor, and cultural icon will be celebrated with the coveted Entertainment Icon Award, highlighting his extraordinary influence across sports, cinema, television, and beyond.
The annual ABFF Honors event, produced by Nice Crowd, will take place on February 16, 2026, at the luxurious SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. It will gather some of the most talented and forward-thinking names in the industry to celebrate creativity, perseverance, cultural impact, and storytelling excellence.
Why Dwayne Johnson Is Being Honored
The organizers behind ABFF praised Johnson for his unparalleled impact on the entertainment world. They highlighted his unique journey that spans multiple disciplines — from redefining sports entertainment to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.
Johnson’s path from professional wrestling to international film stardom is one of resilience, authenticity, and charisma. These qualities align deeply with the mission of ABFF, which aims to uplift diverse voices and celebrate transformational contributions to entertainment.
Jeff Friday and Nicole Friday, co-CEOs of Nice Crowd, described Johnson as “the very definition of an entertainment icon,” noting that his dedication, creative spirit, and powerful connection with audiences worldwide make him the perfect honoree for 2026.
‘The Smashing Machine’: A Career-Defining Role
A major highlight of Johnson’s recent career has been his starring role in A24’s The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie. The film showcases Johnson in one of his most transformative performances yet, portraying legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr, whose career was filled with triumphs in the ring and struggles outside of it.
The story delves into Kerr’s rise as a champion while battling addiction and emotional turmoil. Emily Blunt co-stars in the film, playing Kerr’s girlfriend in a deeply personal and complex relationship dynamic.
The film made its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival in September, where it earned high acclaim and was awarded the Silver Lion, adding yet another milestone to Johnson’s impressive acting journey.
Film critics and industry insiders praised Johnson for what many call the most emotionally powerful performance of his career — a performance that could be a major player in the next awards season.
Other Honorees at the 2026 ABFF
The ABFF Honors ceremony will spotlight several other prominent figures whose contributions have significantly shaped the entertainment landscape.
• Jennifer Hudson – Renaissance Award
The Oscar, Grammy, and Emmy award-winning performer and talk-show host will be celebrated for her artistic evolution, dynamic career, and cultural influence.
• Salli Richardson-Whitfield – Evolution Award
Award-winning director and executive producer Salli Richardson-Whitfield will be acknowledged for her steady, groundbreaking growth as a creative force in film and television.
• Damson Idris – Horizon Award
The rising actor, known for his powerful performance in “F1,” will receive the Horizon Award, spotlighting talents shaping the future of storytelling.
Special Tribute to the Team Behind ‘Sinners’
In addition to honoring individual talent, ABFF will present a spotlight tribute to the creative team behind Sinners, the hit horror film directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan.
The film broke records, captivated audiences globally, and added another bold chapter to Coogler’s growing legacy as a master of suspense and emotionally rich storytelling.
KevOnStage to Host the Ceremony
The 2026 ABFF Honors will be hosted by the acclaimed comedian, actor, and bestselling author KevOnStage, known for his sharp wit, relatable comedy, and dynamic presence. His involvement promises a lively, humorous, and heartwarming evening.
As a cultural event, the ABFF Honors is much more than an awards show. It is a gathering that celebrates creativity, honors history, and champions the voices shaping tomorrow’s entertainment world. With Dwayne Johnson receiving the Entertainment Icon Award, the event is expected to draw significant attention across Hollywood and beyond.
Why This Honor Matters
Dwayne Johnson’s recognition at ABFF is not merely a reflection of celebrity status — it acknowledges his tremendous journey, his ability to inspire millions, and his willingness to take on bold, transformative roles.
Over the years, Johnson has:
- Broken barriers in sports entertainment
- Become a global box-office phenomenon
- Embraced culturally rich, character-driven films
- Elevated diverse storytelling through his projects
- Earned respect for his professionalism, humility, and work ethic
His impact extends far beyond movies. Johnson has become a symbol of perseverance, positivity, and reinvention — values deeply connected to ABFF’s mission.
With The Smashing Machine marking a new era in his acting career, this honor arrives at a defining moment for Johnson as he continues to expand his artistic range and influence.