Hollywood's positive Image
Gala fetes Spielberg, Berry, Washington
Hollywood came to the Pasadena Civic Auditorium to see Motown legend Diana Ross host the show, which honored filmmaker Steven Spielberg (Vanguard Award) and actress Halle Berry (Entertainer of the Year). The night shined a spotlight on their efforts in helping portray positive images of African Americans in the entertainment industry.
"This is the first time I have been out since my operation and it feels like a dream," said Spielberg, who encouraged those in the industry to hire more African American studio execs and more minority writers. "Thank you so much for the greatest get well card I have ever received."
Berry, who also was also honored with an outstanding actress in a television movie nod for her performance in HBO's "Introducing Dorthy Dandridge," accepted her award after fiancee Eric Benet serenaded her. "This has been the best year of my life," she said.
"The Best Man" took home the best picture award as well as actress, Nia Long, and supporting actor, Terrence Howard.
Denzel Washington received the actor award for his performance in "The Hurricane." When asked what he thought about his Oscar chances, he said, "I've got to get nominated first."
The President's Award was presented to Radio Hall of Famer Tom Joyner, radio/TV political commentator Tavis Smiley and the Tom Joyner Morning Show, and others awards went to Angela Bassett, Steve Harvey, Tia and Tamera Mowry, Della Reese and Eriq La Salle.
Also on hand were NAACP chairman Julian Bond, Jay Leno, Laurence Fishburne, and performances by Luther Vandross, Take 6, gospel singer Yolanda Adams and Smokey Robinson, who later was inducted into the Image Awards Hall of Fame.
The two hour primetime telecast will air Thursday, April 6, on Fox.
