Taraji P. Henson and Sarah Finn Honoured at Newport Beach Film Festival Brunch

Actor Taraji P. Henson and casting director Sarah Finn were honoured at the Newport Beach Film Festival's 27th annual Festival Honors brunch on Oct. 18, 2026. The event took place at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, California, Deadline reported.

Henson received the Artist of Distinction Award. In her remarks, she said she uses her platform across art, advocacy, philanthropy and entrepreneurship. Her aim, she said, is to protect dignity, open up possibilities and remind people that healing and joy belong to them.

Casting director Sarah Finn received the Casting Visionary Award. Finn looked back on nearly three decades of finding the right actors for film roles. She accepted the prize on behalf of the wider casting community.

Rosalind Eleazar was also recognised for her role in Misty Green, a film written by Chris Rock.

The morning opened with Variety's 10 Actors to Watch panel, a conversation with performers before the honorees were presented. Panels like this give audiences a closer look at the people who may be seen in the next wave of films.

The festival runs from Oct. 15 to 22, 2026, according to its official website, and tickets went on sale ahead of the event. Honours such as these sit alongside screenings and panels over the week, and they give the festival a chance to recognise people both in front of and behind the camera.