OWN x NAACP Honor the Creators Shaping Our Culture

On Monday, December 1, OWN and the NAACP came together at The Aster Club in Los Angeles for an exclusive celebration that reminded everyone in the room of one truth: when Black storytellers gather with purpose, culture elevates. The event was a statement. A recognition. A love letter to the creators, cast members, executives, and community leaders who are shaping the narratives that reflect our lives, our families, our challenges, and our joy.

This intimate gathering (anchored by OWN’s President, Tina Perry) brought out some of the network’s most loved and respected talent, all under one roof for a night of gratitude and inspiration. From the incomparable Iyanla Vanzant, to reality king Carlos King, to household favorites like Tommy “Nephew Tommy” Miles, Amber Stevens West, Corbin Reid, and beloved members of OWN’s Love & Marriage: Huntsville cast, the room radiated star power and purpose.

A Black Carpet That Set the Tone

Guests were welcomed by a glamorous black carpet (an intentional shift from traditional red carpets) that immediately created space for softness, excellence, and Black joy. Cameras flashed, conversations sparked, and attendees were fully immersed in a star-studded moment curated with intention and care.

Inside, Tina Perry officially opened the night with remarks that echoed the shared mission of OWN and the NAACP: uplifting Black stories and elevating the voices behind them. Her message set the tone for a night rooted in community and cultural impact.

A VIP Experience Designed With Us in Mind

From specialty cocktails to perfectly curated heavy bites, guests indulged in a warm, luxurious atmosphere while DJ Dar.Jar kept the energy vibrant. With a branded step-and-repeat, interactive elements, and a “Hollywood” portrait station, the space became a playground of creativity and connection.

And in true communal spirit, every attendee left with a custom blanket; a thoughtful nod to the warmth, comfort, and togetherness that both OWN and the NAACP strive to cultivate through their work.

Celebrating the Shows That Celebrate Us

The evening also spotlighted OWN’s slate of impactful series; each of them reflecting different facets of Black life, healing, and community.

Iyanla: The Inside Fix

Legendary spiritual teacher and bestselling author Iyanla Vanzant returns this January with Iyanla: The Inside Fix, offering deeper reflections on some of the most unforgettable healing moments from Iyanla: Fix My Life. Expect insight. Expect transformation. Expect Iyanla doing what she does best... helping us do the work.

Love & Marriage: Huntsville

A fan favorite that continues to generate conversation and connection, Love & Marriage: Huntsville follows longtime friends, frenemies, and couples navigating business, love, and family dynamics in Alabama. With big personalities and bigger truths, the cast remains a cultural staple.

Ready to Love

Hosted by comedian Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles, this dating series highlights successful Black singles looking for real love. This season takes us to Detroit, spotlighting 20 men and women who are ready to lead with authenticity, vulnerability, and intention.

Heart & Hustle: Houston

One of OWN’s newest gems, this series champions a powerhouse group of Black women entrepreneurs in Houston (beauty mavens, event planners, spa owners, content creators, engineers, and restaurateurs) thriving, striving, and redefining success in real time.

OWN for the Holidays: A New Holiday Classic

The night also celebrated the upcoming premiere of The Christmas Showdown, airing December 6 at 9pm ET/PT. Starring Amber Stevens West, Corbin Reid, and the legendary Loretta Devine, the film follows two former best friends who must reunite, rebuild, and ultimately rise to land the same job and rediscover their bond amid a festive holiday competition. A little rivalry, a little reconciliation, and a lot of heart.

A Celebration of Impact... On and Off Screen

The OWN x NAACP partnership is a reminder that representation isn’t just about who’s on camera; it’s about who makes the decisions, who builds the narratives, and who creates the space for those stories to exist. This event honored the many hands that bring Black stories to life, and the communities uplifted because of them.

It was a night overflowing with gratitude, excellence, and Black cultural brilliance... and a testament to what happens when media, community, and purpose come together.

OWN and the NAACP created a moment... a reminder that our stories deserve the spotlight, always.

Photos Courtesy of Getty Images for OWN