The news is in and YES — Karine Jean-Pierre will be taking the stage as the host of this year’s 17th annual African American Film Critics Association Film Awards (AAFCA) on February 8, 2026, at The Maybourne in Beverly Hills, California. The AAFCA Awards have spent 17 years celebrating extraordinary contributions in television and film and undoubtedly always gives a ceremony to remember.
While this marks her first time stepping into the entertainment spotlight, the former White House Press Secretary is well-acquainted with high-profile roles. Karine Jean-Pierre follows past hosts like Jordin Sparks and Amber Ruffin so it is clear AAFCA’s Gil Robertson chooses the best of the best.
About Karine Jean-Pierre:
Karine is known for breaking barriers in politics and is onto doing just the same, making her first-ever hosting debut. Karine Jean-Pierre impressive influence from the world of politics will undoubtedly bring forth bold attention to the intersection of storytelling in the media and entertainment world alongside social change. While Karine Jean-Pierre transition from the political sphere to entertainment is unconventional, passion often leads to perfect alignment with one’s purpose. Karine is deeply committed to using her platform to uplift underrepresented voices, which directly aligns with AAFCA’s ongoing mission.
About AAFCA:
The AAFCA Film Awards honor achievements in cinema through a lens of Black excellence and cultural relevance. It is one of the most respected award shows highlighting Black creatives in the industry. The event brings together actors, filmmakers, critics, and rising stars for a powerful night of celebration.
Winners will be celebrated at the 17th Annual AAFCA Awards on February 8th at The Maybourne Beverly Hills in Beverly Hills. The announcement was made by AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson. “The cinematic voices recognized this year remind us of the power of film to challenge, inspire, and unite,” said AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson. “From bold new visions to unforgettable performances, these winners represent storytellers who are pushing the art form forward while speaking to the moment we are living in. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and the impact their work continues to have on audiences worldwide.”
Check out the full list of this year’s winner and top 10 films below:
AAFCA’S TOP 10 FILMS OF THE YEAR
1. Sinners (Warner Bros.)
2. One Battle After Another (Warner Bros.)
3. Hedda (Amazon MGM)
4. Frankenstein (Netflix)
5. Hamnet (Focus Features)
6. Wicked: For Good (Universal Pictures)
7. F1 (Apple/Warner Bros.)
8. One of Them Days (Sony Pictures Releasing)
9. The Knife (Relativity Media)
10. The Smashing Machine (A24)
WINNERS | 17th ANNUAL AAFCA AWARDS
BEST ACTOR – Michael B. Jordan, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
BEST ACTRESS – Tessa Thompson, Hedda (Amazon MGM)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS – Wunmi Mosaku, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR – Dansom Idris, F1 (Apple/Warner Bros.)
BEST DOCUMENTARY – The Perfect Neighbor (Netflix)
BEST ANIMATED FEATURE – KPop Demon Hunters (Netflix)
BEST DIRECTOR – Ryan Coogler, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
BEST WRITING – Ryan Coogler, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
EMERGING FACE (ACTOR) – Miles Caton, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
EMERGING FACE (ACTRESS) – Chase Infiniti, One Battle After Another (Warner Bros.)
BEST INDEPENDENT FEATURE – Hedda (Amazon MGM)
BEST ENSEMBLE – Sinners (Warner Bros.)
BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT – The Rebel Girls
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT – Hoops, Hopes & Dreams
BEST ANIMATED SHORT – Black Man, Black Man
BEST MUSIC – Ludwig Göransson, Sinners (Warner Bros.)
