( ENSPIRE Features ) Hollywood Unlocked Host 2023’s Impact Awards to Recognize Serval Members of the Community
ENSPIRE Contributor: Wesley Tran
On June 27, 2023, Hollywood Unlocked and its CEO and Founder Jason Lee hosted the 2023 Impact Awards recognizing role models, celebrities, and icons who have made a lasting effect on the culture. The awards opened with a captivating performance by Grammy-nominated singer Chanté Moore, followed by opening remarks from Actress and Comedian Tiffany Haddish, a returning host from last year.
One particularly special moment of the night was the official launch of Jason Lee’s Hollywood Cares Foundation, aimed at providing resources and assistance to communities in need, with a particular focus on youth services. The foundation raised over $100K beginning with a giant check presented by Deion Taylor on behalf of Robert F. Smith and Hidden Empire, followed by another contribution from the Black Lives Matter Global Foundation. Grammy-winning gospel singer Jonathan McReynolds closed the show with a performance before Jason Lee joined Tiffany Haddish to say goodnight and thank the crowd.
Evan Ross presented the first Impact Awards honor, the Community Award to Vice President, Creative at Broadcast Music, Inc. Catherine Brewton. Tiffany Haddish presented Image Architect Law Roach with the Innovator Award. Next, a sultry performance from R&B singer Muni Long featuring her hit “Hrs & Hrs.” Actor Sarunas Jackson presented the Fearlessness Award to Chlöe Bailey. Later, a recorded speech from Vice President Kamala Harris was played in which she thanked Jason Lee for his work with the Impact Awards which honors leaders who shape our culture and our future.
Grammy-winning singer Macy Gray presented a recorded acceptance from Whoopi Goldberg who received the Social Impact award, followed by Tyrese Gibson who presented 12x Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Babyface with the Icon Award. Attendees were delighted by a surprise performance from Chrisean Rock who performed “Vibe.” In recognition of the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop, rapper Joyner Lucas presented the Culture Award to the influential late rapper Tupac whose sister Sekyiwa ‘Set’ Shakur accepted on his behalf stating, “A voice for the culture is not just a trend but a call to action.” Other notable guests at the event were Halle Bailey, Yvette Nicole Brown, Law Roach, Fat Joe, Floyd Mayweather, and many others!
To learn more about this year’s Impact Awards, click here.
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