Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy Award-winning actress, director, and producer Regina King will serve as the official Ambassador for the 30th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF), returning to Miami Beach May 27–31, 2026 under the theme “The Homecoming.”
Known for celebrating Black excellence in film and television, ABFF’s milestone year marks three decades of elevating emerging talent, showcasing groundbreaking storytelling, and empowering creatives across the industry. As Festival Ambassador, King will play a central role in the celebration, including welcoming guests on Opening Night and headlining a special “Creator Conversation with Regina King.”
King’s connection to ABFF dates back nearly 30 years, when she first attended the festival—then known as the Acapulco Black Film Festival—in 1997. Since then, her journey as an acclaimed actor, director, and producer has mirrored the festival’s growth into a global platform for Black creatives.
“ABFF has championed countless artists and storytellers, growing into a powerful global platform,” said King in a press release. “What Jeff and Nicole Friday have built over 30 years has made a lasting impact across our industry. Returning feels like a homecoming—a celebration of our creativity, resilience, and excellence.”
Festival founders Jeff Friday, CEO of NICE CROWD, and Nicole Friday, President of NICE CROWD, said the announcement felt like a full-circle moment.
“Regina has been part of the ABFF family since the very beginning,” said the founders in a press statement. “She represents everything this festival was created to celebrate—artistry, integrity, and excellence.”
Over the years, King has become one of Hollywood’s most respected figures. Her career spans from her breakout role on 227 to award-winning performances in If Beale Street Could Talk, Seven Seconds, and Watchmen. She also made history as the first Black woman to debut a film at the Venice International Film Festival with One Night in Miami. Most recently, she directed Netflix’s Forever and stars opposite Austin Butler in Caught Stealing.
ABFF’s 30th anniversary is supported by major partners including Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Ally Financial, American Airlines, City of Miami Beach, Netflix, and Variety.
More programming details and special guests will be announced soon. For updates on ABFF 2026, visit https://www.nicecrowd.com/.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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