Kerry Washington named ambassador for 31st American Black Film Festival in Los Angeles

Kerry Washington will serve as ambassador of the 31st annual American Black Film Festival, The Hollywood Reporter reported on 29 September 2026.

The appointment puts a familiar face at the front of the festival's next edition. Washington is already well known to its audiences and its artists.

The 31st festival is scheduled for 20 to 23 May 2027 in Los Angeles, according to the same report. That confirms both the dates and the host city well in advance.

Los Angeles gives the event a new stage for its fourth decade. The festival was founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday as an annual meeting point for Black film and television talent, from emerging directors to established stars.

Washington joins a long line of ambassadors. Previous names include Regina King, Halle Berry, Tracee Ellis Ross, Idris Elba, Regina Hall, Taraji P. Henson and Earvin "Magic" Johnson.

King held the role most recently, serving as ambassador for the festival's 30th anniversary edition, according to an announcement from the festival. Washington now picks up that mantle for year 31.

Her link with the festival is recent. Washington last appeared at the event in 2024 for the season two world premiere of Unprisoned, the Hulu comedy-drama in which she stars and produces.

That history matters. Ambassadors do more than lend a name. They welcome filmmakers, introduce screenings and help set the tone for four busy days of premieres, panels and deal-making.

What makes this stand out is continuity. The festival keeps turning to artists who have actually walked its red carpet and sat in its Q&As. Washington fits that pattern.

For fans, this means a clear date for the diary. May 2027 in Los Angeles. More programme details will follow from the festival organisers in the coming months.