Andre DeShields, Jasmine Cephas Jones Set for AAFCA Goes to Broadway

The African American Film Critics Association has set the lineup for its fifth AAFCA Goes to Broadway Luncheon.

Tony winner André DeShields, Tony nominee Brandon Dirden and Emmy winners Jasmine Cephas Jones and Cheryl Wills will be honored at the ceremony, set for Monday, Oct. 12 at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in New York’s Theater District.

“Broadway is more than a stage. It is a place where careers are launched, creative voices are developed, and stories become part of our cultural history,” said Gil Robertson IV, president and co-founder of AAFCA. “AAFCA Goes to Broadway gives us an opportunity to recognize the people who have made those contributions and to celebrate the talent, vision, and commitment that keep theater moving forward. We are honored to bring together the artists and industry leaders who continue to expand what is possible on Broadway and beyond.”

DeShields will receive the Legacy Award in honor of his stage and screen career, including starring in the original Broadway casts of “Warp!,” “The Full Monty” and “The Wiz.” Most recently, DeShields originated the role of Hermes on Broadway in the musical “Hadestown,” winning a Tony and a Grammy award. DeShields also won a Primetime Emmy for his performance in the 1982 NBC broadcast of “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”

Author and Emmy-winning journalist Willis will receive the Beacon Award. She is anchor and host of “Focus with Cheryl Wills” at Spectrum News NY1 and has covered major Broadway productions over her career.

Jones will be presented with the Horizon Award. She made her Broadway debut in 2015, originating the dual roles of Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical “Hamilton,” winning a Grammy. Jones won a Primetime Emmy in 2020 for her role in the short form series “#FreeRayshawn.” She is also known for her roles in “Blindspotting,” “Monsters and Men” and “Lanterns.”

Acclaimed actor and director Dirden will receive the Salute to Excellence award for his lengthy career. Dirden made his Broadway debut in 2007’s “Prelude to a Kiss.” In 2025, he earned a Tony Award nomination for best featured actor in a play for “Waiting for Godot,” and earlier this year, Dirden directed Roundabout Theatre Company’s production of “The Imaginary Invalid.”

Camille A. Brown, the five five-time Tony Award-nominated director and choreographer who received AAFCA’s Salute to Excellence Award in 2024, praised the critics organization for turning its spotlight on the stage.

“AAFCA Goes to Broadway has created an important space where the artistry, history, and cultural impact of theater are celebrated with the attention they deserve,” said Brown. “As a past honoree, I know firsthand how meaningful it is to have my work be recognized by a community that understands the power of our stories.”

Brown added: “AAFCA continues to be committed to amplifying and celebrating Broadway’s role as a launching pad for performers, directors, choreographers, producers, and other creatives. Their luncheon strengthens the bridge between Broadway and audiences, and I’m thrilled to see it continue to grow.”