With over 700 guests in attendance, this invite-only, star-studded event has attracted the attention of API Hollywood and onlookers for decades. Now for the first time ever, the Unforgettable Gala (UNFO) will broadcast live from the Beverly Hilton via AAPI TV network, ChimeTV, on Dec. 16. The gala will be available for streaming at a later date.
Now in its 21st year, Character Media’s annual UNFO will celebrate the accomplishments of API celebrities, influencers and leaders who have made a mark on this year’s entertainment, arts and cultural sphere. 2022 awardees notably include Ke Huy Quan (Actor in Film), Stephanie Hsu (Breakout in Film), Bretman Rock (Digital Influencer) and Steven Yeun (Lexus Legacy). The full list of last year’s awardees can be found here.
This year, the gala is set to have a hosts of firsts — along with the live broadcasting, the award show will be compliant with SAG-AFTRA’s strike policies, as the union continues to negotiate with the AMPTP as the strike hits its 118-day mark.
Leading the awards selection committee this year will be UNFO co-chairs, Lisa Ling and Destin Daniel Cretton. Ling will return for her second year serving as co-chair, while it’ll be Cretton’s first.
“It truly is an honor just to be Asian, but even more so, it’s my honor to be a part of such a diverse community with passionate stories and profound impact on the world.” Ling said, in a statement with Deadline. “We’re here to celebrate these incredible individuals who’ve gone above and beyond, inspiring our community by their artistry, commitment and hard work.”
To keep up with future announcements, stay up to date with the Unforgettable website and for sponsorship inquiries, please contact partnerships@charactermedia.com.