Kerry Washington to Serve as Ambassador of 2027 American Black Film Festival

Kerry Washington will serve as ambassador of the 31st annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), set to take place May 20-23, 2027, in Los Angeles.

“ABFF has spent three decades championing Black storytellers and helping their voices be heard,” Washington said in a news release. “I’m honored to serve as Ambassador as the festival makes its move to Los Angeles, where it will open even more doors for the next generation of talent.”

According to the release, “As ambassador, Washington will support ABFF’s mission to champion storytellers, expand career pathways for emerging talent and foster a vibrant creative community across film and television.”

ABFF was founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday to facilitate connection and inspiration as well as create business opportunities for filmmakers, artists, entertainers and executives. For the past 30 years, the annual festival has been held in Miami. With the move to L.A., ABFF aims to deepen its connection to the entertainment industry with an array of offerings, from screenings and panel conversations to industry events and cultural experiences.

“From the beginning, ABFF has been about creating a place where artists feel seen, supported and connected to a larger creative community,” said Jeff Friday, who is also CEO of ABFF’s live events company NICE CROWD. “Our ambassadors have always represented that spirit, and Kerry brings a generosity, authenticity and sense of purpose that resonates deeply with who we are. We’re incredibly proud to welcome her as our 2027 ambassador.”

Added NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday, “Kerry has a genuine connection to ABFF and has long supported what the festival stands for. She understands the importance of creating opportunities for artists and the power of storytelling to bring people together. Having her serve as ambassador for our 31st festival feels both meaningful and fitting.”

Washington last appeared at ABFF in 2024 for the season two world premiere of Hulu’s Unprisoned, in which she starred and served as executive producer. Previous ABFF ambassadors have included Regina King, Halle Berry, Tracee Ellis Ross, Idris Elba, Regina Hall, Taraji P. Henson and Earvin “Magic” Johnson, among others.