The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) has revealed its 2025 Talk Series lineup, spotlighting a dynamic mix of cultural influencers and entertainment leaders who will take the stage in Miami Beach from June 11–15. This year’s slate features high-impact conversations with athletes, actors, producers, and entrepreneurs who continue to shape the Black experience in media and beyond.
Headliners include NBA star Chris Paul, journalist and author Jemele Hill, actress and entrepreneur Gabrielle Union, and award-winning actor Blair Underwood. Also joining the lineup are Grammy-winning singer Ashanti, actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, and model Tyson Beckford.
Returning as a signature feature of the festival, the Talks Series offers attendees intimate access to insights and stories from the people driving culture forward. Topics range from longevity in the entertainment industry to the intersection of sisterhood and financial empowerment.
Panels and key conversations include:
- “The Longevity Playbook: A Conversation with Blair Underwood” presented by AARP
- “Sisterhood & Savings: A Conversation with Gabrielle Union” presented by Ally Financial
- Comcast NBCUniversal discussions featuring Ashanti, the Peetes, Tyson Beckford, and the cast of Bel-Air
- A behind-the-scenes look at Netflix’s The Old Guard 2 with director Victoria Mahoney and actress KiKi Layne
- A special talk with showrunner Mara Brock Akil, the creative mind behind Forever
The festival will also debut BOB Talks (Black Owned Brands) — a new series of conversations with founders and innovators driving Black entrepreneurship across industries. “We’re excited to return to Miami Beach with an inspiring lineup of cultural icons and changemakers,” said Nicole Friday, President of NICE CROWD. “These conversations remain one of the most impactful parts of the ABFF experience.”
The 29th annual ABFF will run June 11–15 in Miami Beach, with a digital extension via ABFF PLAY from June 16–24. For more information on the Talks Series and speaker schedule, visit www.abff.com.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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