Supply: Corey Nickols / Getty
Hollywood’s brightest stars gathered on the prestigious ABFF Honors on Monday, Feb. 17, on the SLS Lodge in Beverly Hills, Calif., to rejoice Black excellence in movie and tv. Among the many night’s most electrifying moments was Aaron Pierre’s recognition because the recipient of the Rising Star Award—a testomony to his immense expertise, charisma, and plain heartthrob standing.
Pierre, whose commanding presence and smoldering haute seems have captivated audiences worldwide, is finest identified for his function as Mufasa in Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King. His profession trajectory has been nothing wanting meteoric, propelled by standout performances in Netflix’s Insurgent Ridge, The Underground Railroad, and Genius: MLK/X. Receiving this honor solidifies his place amongst Hollywood’s elite, marking a pivotal second in his ascent to superstardom.
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2025 ABFF Honors Honorees (L-R) Aaron Pierre, Giancarlo Esposito, Marla Gibbs, Nicole Fridau, Keke Palmer, Aujanue Ellis-Taylor, Jeff Friday. Picture by Aaron J. Thornton/ABFF
In an unique interview on the teal carpet throughout ABFF Honors, Pierre mirrored on the importance of the glory and the ability of Black excellence. “I feel we’re all Black and glorious, and I feel we must always all proceed to really feel that and stand in our energy,” he shared.
His humility and gratitude shone by as he described receiving the Rising Star Award throughout the momentous event. “It’s a beautiful second. It’s a beautiful second to really feel seen, to really feel appreciated. These are treasures that aren’t missed on me—so very grateful. And I’m trying ahead to it.”
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Probably the most touching highlights of the night was the presentation of Pierre’s award by none apart from Kelvin Harrison Jr., his longtime good friend and “brother in love,” who paradoxically acquired the identical award – introduced by Cadillac – the 12 months earlier than. Their bond, which extends past the display, was encapsulated in Pierre’s heartfelt phrases: “In two phrases, unshakable and unbreakable. That’s my brother for actual.” The second resonated deeply, emphasizing the significance of camaraderie and mutual upliftment within the business.
As Pierre accepted his award, he remained humble, susceptible and steadfast.
“Initially, I have to thank God. Thanks for being current and strolling with me as I do my finest to navigate this journey and this expertise. Thanks for any and all blessings You’ve given to me, sure, even those within the second I didn’t determine as such: the moments the place my financial institution stability was under zero, the moments once I needed to promote my belongings for somewhat money, the moments once I felt considerably delusional or questioned if it was correct to explain my occupation as that of an actor as a result of I used to be unemployed and the telephone was radio silent. It jogged my memory in these moments in James 1: 3-4, this reads: ‘For you recognize that when your religion is examined, your endurance has an opportunity to develop. So, let it develop. For when your endurance is totally developed, you may be good and full, missing nothing.’ Thanks ABFF for this recognition, this loving embrace. To be seen and appreciated are treasures, none of that are misplaced on me.”
Supply: ABFF Honors Founders Jeff Friday and spouse Nicole Friday, posing subsequent to Rising Star Honoree Aaron Pierre. Picture by Aaron J. Thornton/ABFF
Past his plain expertise, Pierre’s chiseled options, intense gaze, and easy allure have solidified his standing as a Hollywood heartthrob. His magnetic presence instructions consideration, making him one of the vital sought-after main males of his technology. Whether or not on-screen or gracing the crimson carpet, Pierre exudes a uncommon mix of sophistication, power, and vulnerability—qualities that proceed to endear him to audiences worldwide.
As Pierre embarks on the following chapter of his profession, his star energy reveals no indicators of dimming. With a rising repertoire of critically acclaimed performances and a pure attract that captivates followers, he’s set to grow to be one of many defining abilities of his period. For Pierre, the Rising Star Award isn’t just a recognition of his previous achievements however a shining gentle illuminating his limitless potential forward.
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