Renowned star of Marissa Bode, Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin, along with Nyle DiMarco and filmmaker David Guggenheim from the acclaimed documentary “Deaf President Now!” are set to be honored at this year’s Media Access Awards.
The awards ceremony, in collaboration with Easterseals, celebrates remarkable artists, storytellers, and narratives that promote disability inclusivity.
Additional illustrious recipients include actress Anita Hollander, and writers Liz Meriwether, Kim Rosenstock, Sasha Stewart, and Keisha Zollar. Further honorees extend to reality television hosts Jay Manuel and Pamela Manuel, as well as casting directors Paul Schnee and Kerry Barden.
Scheduled for October 8 in Los Angeles, the ceremony will have its inaugural broadcast on November 5 via PBS SoCal Plus.
“This year’s honorees embody a diverse array of creatives pushing forward cultural conversations and inclusion both in front of and behind the camera,” noted awards show writer and co-CEO Allen Rucker.
Co-CEO and executive producer Deborah Calla remarked, “It is a tremendous privilege to gather the artistic community to recognize the pioneering achievements in disability representation.”
Actress and advocate Ali Stroker will host the event, with presenters including notable figures such as Henry Winkler, Esco Jouléy, Nic Novicki, Cesily Collette Taylor, John Maucere, and Amber Sealy. Special messages will be delivered by Lily D. Moore and Jenny Slater.
SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin will present the prestigious Harold Russell Award to Anita Hollander during the event. “Our SAG-AFTRA team is elated to honor Anita Hollander with the Harold Russell Award at this year’s Media Access Awards,” stated Astin. “Her inspiring advocacy, leadership, and creativity resonate with many, making it a joy to celebrate her contributions alongside her exceptional talent.”
The ceremony will also feature performances from Luca “Lazylegs” Patuelli, Brian King Joseph, Rick Allen from Def Leppard, Lauren Monroe, and additional surprise guests.
Following its premiere on PBS SoCal Plus on November 5, the awards show will air on PBS SoCal on November 7 and will be available on various PBS stations nationwide starting November 15. Viewers can also stream the program on the PBS App at the same time as the premiere.
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