Ayanna Irish
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
R&B/Soul Recording Artist
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Powerhouse R&B/soul vocalist, songwriter and performer whose musical journey began in Montserrat at age five. Raised in a Caribbean musical family, she received classical piano training and developed her distinctive powerhouse voice through years of performance and professional study. She earned a Music degree from CUNY’s City College and has shared stages with legendary artists including Patti LaBelle, Mariah Carey, Rod Stewart, Ricky Martin and Booker T. Jones.
Irish has also collaborated with Kanye West and Jadakiss and is recognized for her powerful performances of the U.S. National Anthem for the Brooklyn Nets, receiving a team award in 2023 after performing it more than 20 times. Her music has appeared alongside artists including Talib Kweli and NIKO IS.
In 2026, Irish continues to build her legacy with the release of “Dear Friend,” featuring Talib Kweli, released May 8, 2026. With her commanding vocals, classical foundation, Caribbean roots and soulful R&B style, Ayanna Irish remains a dynamic voice in contemporary music.
Dee-1
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Hip Hop Recording Artist
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Dee-1 is an award-winning New Orleans rapper, educator, activist, entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker known for combining hip-hop with messages of purpose, positivity, faith, financial literacy, and social responsibility. A former middle-school mathematics teacher, Dee-1 transitioned from the classroom to a successful music career and has released more than 20 projects, including UNO, LOADED, and the critically acclaimed Hipocritical Hop.
As the founder of Mission Vision Music, Dee-1 continues to champion his philosophy of “Be Real. Be Righteous. Be Relevant.” He has earned Billboard chart recognition, served as a Harvard Nasir Jones Hip Hop Fellow, and has worked as a professor and national Social Emotional Learning consultant. In 2026, he remains active musically, releasing singles including “Divine Intervention” and “Shut Em Down,” while continuing his work as an influential voice in hip-hop, education, and community empowerment.
DJ Drewski
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
DJ, Music Producer, Radio Personality, Reality TV Star & Entrepreneur
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
New Jersey-born DJ, radio personality, music curator, producer and entrepreneur best known for his work with HOT 97. After beginning as an intern at the station in 2008, he worked his way up through production and eventually became a full-time on-air personality, making history as the first New Jersey DJ in 33 years to host a full-time show on HOT 97.
Drewski is also recognized for his role in discovering and championing emerging hip-hop talent, his Drewski & Friends showcases, and his MVMT platform dedicated to new artists. He has appeared on VH1's Love & Hip Hop: New York and continues to expand his influence across radio, television, live events and music. In 2026, he remains a prominent voice and tastemaker in the New York/New Jersey hip-hop scene.
DJ Suss One
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
DJ, Music Producer, Radio & TV Personality
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Steven “DJ Suss One” Sussman is a New York–based DJ, producer, radio and television personality known for his high-energy style and longtime presence in hip-hop and entertainment. He began his career as a Sony Music intern before earning radio positions at Power 104.1 Hartford and New York’s Power 105.1.
A respected DJ and tastemaker, Suss One has performed for major audiences worldwide, most notably serving as Mariah Carey’s official DJ, including her 2006 The Adventures of Mimi tour and Las Vegas residency. He has also worked in satellite radio, television and music production, collaborating with major artists.
Today, DJ Suss One continues to expand his entertainment brand through The Feature Presentation, combining music, celebrity interviews, entertainment news and media production
Steph G
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Hip Hop Recording Artist
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Rising Brooklyn, New York rapper and songwriter from Brownsville, known for her confident delivery, energetic style, and Brooklyn drill-influenced sound. She began her professional music career in 2021 and gained attention with tracks including “R.I.C.O.,” “Danger Zone,” “WYA,” and “Feelin Myself.”
In 2025–2026, Steph G continued building momentum through collaborations and new releases, including “Risk Me,” “Shhh (Freestyle),” “Pop It” featuring DJ Swanqo, “Water Proof (Live),” and “TONIGHT.” Her music is available across major streaming platforms, establishing her as an emerging voice in New York hip-hop.
Torae
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Hip Hop Recording Artist, Radio Personality, Host & Entrepreneur
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Brooklyn-born rapper, songwriter, radio personality, actor, host, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for his authentic East Coast hip-hop style and sharp lyricism. He gained major recognition through collaborations with DJ Premier and Marco Polo, including the acclaimed Double Barrel project.
Throughout his career, Torae has worked with influential artists and producers including Pete Rock, 9th Wonder, Large Professor, Sean Price, Talib Kweli, Skyzoo, Wale, Masta Ace, and Black Milk. His solo catalog includes For the Record, Entitled, and other acclaimed projects, while his work as a radio host and interviewer has further established him as a respected voice within hip-hop culture.
In addition to music, Torae has appeared as an actor, hosted events and festivals, and has been involved in philanthropic efforts supporting his Coney Island community.
Vernell "Vee" Sales
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
R&B/Soul Recording Artist
Event: Busta Rhymes + J Dilla “Exclusive” Dillagence 2 Album Release Listening Session I 8.17.2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Times Square, NYC
Vernell “Vee” Sales is the powerhouse female vocalist of the R&B duo Koffee Brown. Born and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, Vee began her career as a background vocalist, touring and performing with major artists including Mary J. Blige and Faith Evans.
Koffee Brown was formed after Vee and Fonz auditioned separately for music executive Clive Davis, who recognized their chemistry and suggested they perform together. Signed to Arista Records, the duo scored their signature hit “After Party,” which became a Top 10 R&B hit and helped their 2001 debut album Mars/Venus reach No. 32 on the Billboard 200.
After reuniting in 2024 with vocalist Ryan Lane, Vee continues to carry Koffee Brown's signature sound to a new generation. The reunited duo has released new music including “About It,” “Simple Things,” and the 2025 single “A Place Called Love.”
Adam Jumba
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Director
Event: “Festival of Cinema NYC” Closing Night Red Carpet Gala I 8.15.2026
Location: Regal UA Midway, Forest Hills, Queens, NYC
“Lone Rider” Director
Filmmaker, director, writer, and producer, and a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). His directing credits include The Money, Asphalt Saints, Blue Glass Heaven, Augustus, and the 2024 Digital Nas music video “False News.”
Byron Clohessy
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Actor & Producer
Event: “Festival of Cinema NYC” Closing Night Red Carpet Gala I 8.15.2026
Location: Regal UA Midway, Forest Hills, Queens, NYC
“Noxturne” Cast Member / Role: Ramon
Actor and producer known for his work in television and film. His credits include Law & Order: Organized Crime, City on a Hill, FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, Blue Bloods, Bull, Your Honor, and Inheritance. He has also appeared in films including Brownsville Bred, The Plantation, Equal Standard, and Framing John DeLorean. Byron is the son of actor Robert Clohessy and has established his own career across television, film, and independent productions.
Jack Alcott
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Actor
Event: “Festival of Cinema NYC” Closing Night Red Carpet Gala I 8.15.2026
Location: Regal UA Midway, Forest Hills, Queens, NYC
“Lone Rider” Cast Member / Role: Tyler
Actor best known for playing Harrison Morgan, the son of Dexter Morgan, in Dexter: New Blood and Dexter: Resurrection. He also starred as Jason Brown in the acclaimed miniseries The Good Lord Bird alongside Ethan Hawke and has appeared in The Blacklist, Champaign ILL, and Poker Face. A graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Alcott has quickly established himself as a rising talent in television and film.
Kristine Klebe
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Actress, Writer, Producer & Director
Event: “Festival of Cinema NYC” Closing Night Red Carpet Gala I 8.15.2026
Location: Regal UA Midway, Forest Hills, Queens, NYC
“Noxturne” Director, Writer, Producer & Cast Member / Role: Mia Nox
Actress, filmmaker, and producer best known for her roles in Halloween (2007), Hellboy (2019), For All Mankind, Doom Patrol, and Brooklyn 45.
Laila Robins
INTERVIEW COMING SOON!
Actress & Producer
Event: “Festival of Cinema NYC” Closing Night Red Carpet Gala I 8.15.2026
Location: Regal UA Midway, Forest Hills, Queens, NYC
“Noxturne” Cast Member / Role: Mutter
Acclaimed American stage, film, and television actress known for her powerful dramatic performances. A Yale School of Drama graduate, she made her film debut in Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987) and has appeared in The Sopranos, Homeland, The Blacklist, The Boys, and The Walking Dead. Her extensive Broadway and Off-Broadway career includes The Real Thing, Frozen, and Heartbreak House.
Brenda K. Starr
Freestyle, Pop, R&B, Latin music Recording Artist
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Acclaimed New York–born singer and songwriter whose career spans more than four decades across freestyle, pop, R&B and Latin music. Rising to prominence in the 1980s, Starr became best known for her signature hit “I Still Believe,” which reached the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was later famously covered by Mariah Carey. She also scored success with “What You See Is What You Get.”
Starr later reinvented herself as a successful Latin and salsa artist, earning major recognition with the chart-topping “Herida” and the Latin Grammy-nominated album Temptation. She is also recognized for playing an important early role in Mariah Carey’s career, having employed Carey as a background singer and helping introduce her music to industry executives.
Still recording and performing in 2026, Starr continues to connect her freestyle and Latin music legacy with new music, including the July 2026 single “No Digas Nada (Don’t Say Anything).”
Cynthia Bailey
Supermodel, Actress & TV Personality best known for Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Acclaimed supermodel, actress, entrepreneur, and television personality best known for her longtime role on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Beginning her career in New York City, Bailey signed with Wilhelmina Models and built an international modeling career that included major fashion campaigns, magazine appearances, and runway work in the U.S. and abroad.
Since joining RHOA in 2010, Bailey has become one of the franchise’s most recognizable personalities. In 2026, she continued her association with the series as a “Friend” for Season 17 while expanding her career in acting and entrepreneurship. Her screen credits include The Upshaws, BMF, Cruel Instruction, and several film projects. Beyond entertainment, Bailey founded the Bailey Agency School of Fashion and has developed fashion, eyewear, and lifestyle ventures.
Ebony Young
Deputy Queens Borough President
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Ebony Young serves as the Deputy Queens Borough President, appointed in 2022 by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. A seasoned executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across the nonprofit, corporate, and public sectors, she has held senior roles with the City of New York, the YMCA of Greater New York, TF Cornerstone, the Black Entrepreneur Initiative, and incarceration reform initiatives. Young has been instrumental in advancing innovation and economic development, including helping launch New York City's first global tech and innovation center in Long Island City. She is also a champion for youth development, community engagement, leadership, and social impact. Young holds a bachelor's degree in Communications from Indiana State University, a master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Tech, and is a certified life coach and motivational speaker
Kym Lee
Celebrity MUA, best-selling Author, Educator, Minister, & founder/CEO of WinknPout Cosmetics
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Renowned celebrity makeup artist, beauty entrepreneur, best-selling author, educator, minister, and founder/CEO of WinknPout Cosmetics. With more than 25 years in the beauty industry, she has worked with an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Kerry Washington, Regina King, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Venus and Serena Williams, Mary Mary, and Tasha Cobbs.
Her television and film credits include work on BET, House of Cards, Jumping the Broom, Sparkle, and Black Nativity, while her artistry has appeared in publications including Essence, Glamour, InStyle, and People. Beyond beauty, Lee-King is a beauty correspondent, motivational speaker and advocate who uses her platform to inspire and empower women. In 2026, she continues to expand her influence through beauty, entrepreneurship, faith and advocacy.
Paloma Hernandez
President & CEO of Urban Health Plan
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
President and CEO of Urban Health Plan, one of New York State's largest federally qualified community health center systems. A nationally recognized healthcare leader, she has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-quality, affordable healthcare while addressing the social drivers of health. Under her leadership, Urban Health Plan has grown into a network of health centers, school-based clinics, mental health facilities, and community programs serving the Bronx, Central Harlem, and Queens. A Bronx native, she holds graduate degrees from Columbia University and serves as Chair of the Board of the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). She has received numerous honors for her leadership in advancing health equity and community development.
Shay Johnson
Reality tv personality, entrepreneur & wellness advocate best known for her appearances across several popular VH1 franchises.
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Reality television personality, entrepreneur and wellness advocate best known for her appearances across several popular VH1 franchises. She first gained national attention as “Buckeey” on Flavor of Love 2 and later appeared on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta before becoming a prominent cast member of Love & Hip Hop: Miami.
Known for her outspoken personality and memorable television presence, Johnson has also used her platform to discuss women’s reproductive health and her personal experience with fibroids. Beyond reality television, she has expanded her profile as an entrepreneur and wellness advocate. In recent seasons of Love & Hip Hop: Miami, viewers have followed her personal life, motherhood and relationship with Fabo, the father of her daughter, Shajiyah. As of 2026, Johnson remains a recognizable personality within the Love & Hip Hop franchise.
Vanessa L. Gibson
Bronx Borough President
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
14th Borough President of The Bronx and the first woman and first African American to hold the position. First elected in 2021 and re-elected in November 2025, she began her second term in 2026, continuing her commitment to serving more than 1.4 million Bronx residents.
A lifelong New Yorker and experienced public servant, Gibson previously represented the Bronx in both the New York City Council and New York State Assembly. Her leadership focuses on affordable housing, education, healthcare, public safety, economic development, food access, and strengthening opportunities for Bronx families and businesses. Throughout her tenure, she has championed major investments in schools, parks, cultural institutions, healthcare facilities, and community development while advocating for an equitable and thriving future for The Bronx.
Dr. Yan Katsnelson
Cardiac Surgeon & USA Fibroid Centers Founder
Event: 2026 Fibroid Fighters “You Health in Full Bloom” Annual Awareness Event I 7.30.2026
Location: Marriott Marquis, Times Square, NYC
Renowned cardiac surgeon, healthcare entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Founder & CEO of USA Clinics Group, a nationwide network of more than 160 outpatient clinics specializing in vascular, vein, fibroid, pain, prostate, longevity, and oncology care.
A former faculty cardiac surgeon at the University of Chicago, Dr. Katsnelson completed advanced fellowship training at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, affiliated with Harvard Medical School. He is recognized as the first U.S. surgeon to perform a double valve replacement using Biocor™ tissue valves and has extensive expertise in minimally invasive cardiac and vascular surgery.
Dr. Katsnelson also founded the Chicago Heart Institute and co-founded the Fibroid Fighters Foundation, supporting education and awareness surrounding uterine fibroids and women’s health. Through his medical leadership and philanthropy, he continues to advocate for accessible, innovative, and compassionate healthcare nationwide.
Abby Labar
Emmy Nominated Sportscaster and studio host for The MLB Network
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Emmy-nominated sports broadcaster and television host who serves as a studio host for MLB Network, anchoring Quick Pitch, the network's nightly baseball highlights and news program. She also works as a studio host for NHL Network, appearing on On the Fly, and has covered the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL).
Before joining the national stage, Labar was the host and rinkside reporter for the Carolina Hurricanes, covering NHL games for Bally Sports South, and previously worked with FOX Sports South, ACC football, and NC State athletics. A graduate of North Carolina State University, she built her reputation through versatile reporting, hosting, and live event coverage across baseball, hockey, and college sports.
Ahmady Dolice
Division 1 Football Player at Marist College / Running Back
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Division I running back at Marist College who brings a physical, downhill running style, strong vision, and the ability to make defenders miss after contact. A standout at Ardsley High School (N.Y.), he earned recognition for his leadership, work ethic, and competitive mindset while establishing himself as a versatile offensive playmaker. Known for his toughness and explosiveness, Dolice continues to develop as a key member of the Marist Red Foxes football program.
Akintola “AK” Akinniy
Division 1 basketball player at Quinnipiac Univ. & former U.S. Army cadet
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Division I basketball player at Quinnipiac University, Army veteran, entrepreneur, minister, and multidisciplinary creator. Originally from Nigeria and raised in Texas, he is also a recording artist, actor, fitness champion, and influential NIL ambassador. Through his leadership, faith, athletics, and creative pursuits, AK is dedicated to inspiring others to maximize their potential on and off the court.
Atoya Burleson
Podcast host, former collegiate track and field star & wife to former NFL star & CBS personality Nate Burleson
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Entrepreneur, speaker, podcast host, and former collegiate track champion dedicated to empowering women in sports and business. After spending 11 years supporting her husband, NFL analyst, CBS Mornings Co-Host and former player Nate Burleson, throughout his NFL career, she transformed her experience into purpose by founding Ladies Playbook, an exclusive community and digital platform that provides professional athletes' families with trusted resources, relocation support, networking opportunities, and a private community designed to help them thrive both on and off the field.
Atoya is also the creator and host of the acclaimed insideLINES Podcast, where she leads candid conversations with influential women about sports, entrepreneurship, family, leadership, and personal growth. A University of Nevada Athletic Hall of Fame inductee and respected advocate for women, Burleson continues to inspire audiences by creating spaces where women can connect, grow, and build lasting legacies.
Bradley Tejeda
Actor, known for his performances in Broadway's The Inheritance
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Tejano actor from San Antonio, Texas, recognized for his work on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and in regional theater. A graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word and the Yale School of Drama, he is best known for his performances as Adam/Leo in the Tony Award-winning Broadway production of The Inheritance and its acclaimed Geffen Playhouse revival. His stage credits also include The Other Americans, The Night of the Iguana, Born with Teeth, and Much Ado About Nothing, while his television work includes appearances on Blue Bloods, FBI, Law & Order, and Marvel's Wonder Man
Craig Di Francia
Actor, producer, and director known for Greenbook, The Irishman, Tulsa King & much more
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Actor, producer, and director known for his work in film, television, and theater. Trained at New York City's William Esper Studio, he has built a career portraying memorable dramatic and crime-driven roles. His film credits include Green Book and The Irishman, while his television appearances span Power, Blue Bloods, Tulsa King, Godfather of Harlem, The Blacklist, Boardwalk Empire, Jessica Jones, and Gravesend. Recognized for his commanding screen presence and versatility, DiFrancia continues to expand his career with both acting and producing projects
Dan Villari
Los Angeles Rams Tight End
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Professional football tight end for the Los Angeles Rams. A native of Massapequa, New York, he began his collegiate career as a quarterback at Michigan before transferring to Syracuse, where he transitioned to tight end and became known for his athleticism and versatility. Villari contributed as a receiver, runner, and occasional wildcat quarterback, showcasing a unique all-around skill set. After signing with the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2026, he entered the NFL as a developmental prospect with the size, athleticism, and football IQ to contribute on offense and special teams.
Demane Davis
Director of “Ride or Die” now available on Prime Video
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Acclaimed American television and film director, executive producer, and filmmaker known for her compelling, character-driven storytelling. A former advertising creative director, she transitioned into filmmaking and gained widespread recognition after directing and producing Lift, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and marked Kerry Washington's first leading film role.
Davis has directed and executive produced acclaimed television series including Queen Sugar, Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C. Walker, Found, Naomi, and NBC's Brilliant Minds, where she serves as executive producer and producing director. She has also directed more than 70 national commercials, including PETA's acclaimed Super Bowl campaign featuring Edie Falco. Davis is recognized as a champion for diverse voices in television and has helped shape some of today's most impactful and inclusive production
Dynysty
Singer-songwriter known for blending contemporary R&B, urban pop, and hip-hop.
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Singer-songwriter whose music blends contemporary R&B, urban pop, and hip-hop into a fresh, soulful sound. Known for her emotive vocals, authentic storytelling, and versatile artistry, she creates music that connects with audiences through themes of love, resilience, empowerment, and personal growth. Her dynamic style and engaging performances continue to establish her as a rising voice in today's contemporary music landscape.
EJ Brown
Collegiate track & field star for New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) Highlanders.
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Standout collegiate track & field athlete for the NJIT Highlanders, specializing in the 400-meter hurdles. As a freshman, he made program history by becoming NJIT's first America East Conference champion in the men's 400-meter hurdles and only the third Highlander ever to qualify for the NCAA Division I East First Round in the event. A native of Plainfield, New Jersey, Brown has quickly emerged as one of NJIT's top track & field performers, earning recognition for his speed, discipline, and record-setting accomplishments.
Gary “The Kid” Stark Jr.
Professional Boxer & 3x NYC Golden Gloves champion
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Former undefeated American professional boxer from Staten Island, New York, who competed in the super bantamweight and featherweight divisions. A three-time New York City Golden Gloves champion and highly ranked amateur, Stark built a reputation for his speed, technical skill, and relentless work ethic. During his professional career, he fought under promoter Lou DiBella, earned recognition as one of New York's top prospects, and shared the ring with several elite fighters. Following boxing, Stark has remained involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Hannes Daube
US Olympic Men’s Water Polo Bronze Medalist
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
American Olympic water polo standout and one of Team USA's premier attackers. A two-time Olympian, he helped lead the United States to a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, earning World Aquatics Media All-Star Team honors after leading Team USA in scoring. A standout at the University of Southern California (USC), Daube was a three-time All-American, NCAA champion, and MPSF Newcomer of the Year. Professionally, he has competed for top clubs in Greece, France, and Croatia while continuing to represent the U.S. Men's National Team in major international competitions. Known for his powerful perimeter shooting and dynamic offensive play, Daube remains a key contributor as Team USA prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Isis “Ice” Young
Lead WNBA analyst for CBS Sports & former professional basketball player
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Award-winning sports broadcaster, basketball analyst, and former professional basketball player. A CBS Sports WNBA and college basketball analyst, she has also worked with Yahoo! Sports, NBC/Peacock, and FOX Sports. A graduate of Syracuse University's prestigious Newhouse School, Young is the founder of Your World Enterprises, a media training company that helps athletes and aspiring broadcasters develop their on-camera presence, communication skills, and personal brands. Recognized on the 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 – Media list, she continues to make an impact as a respected voice in sports media and athlete development
Jacky Ido
Actor, known for his role in Inglourious Basterds & Co-Starring in “Ride or Die” now available on Prime Video
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Burkinabé-French actor and director whose international career spans film and television in Europe and the United States. He first gained attention in The White Masai (2005) before earning worldwide recognition as Marcel in Quentin Tarantino's Academy Award-winning Inglourious Basterds (2009). His notable television roles include Taxi Brooklyn, The Catch, and The Widow. Born in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Ido also began his career as a slam poet and continues to work as both an actor and filmmaker, earning acclaim for his versatility and commanding screen presence.
Jayden Smith
Track Star, 2025 NYS Champ, 5x All-American & Nat'l Champion
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Sprinter from Dobbs Ferry, New York, born in Los Angeles, who progressed to NCAA Division I track and field, specializing in the 100m and 200m.
He became a national champion in the 200m for St. Kitts and Nevis, establishing himself as one of the top young sprinters connected to the country’s sprint tradition. He also went on to win the prestigious Millrose Games for my team in a close finish to the line against rival school Columbia University.
Alongside his track success, He’s built a significant personal brand, racking up over 220,000 followers across social media by leveraging performance content, storytelling, and NIL-era opportunities to grow his audience.
His journey from a small-school sprinter in Dobbs Ferry to a national champion and Division I athlete with a six‑figure online following showcases both high-level athletic achievement and modern digital influence.
Kelsie Watts
Star of Moulin Rouge on Broadway (former star of SIX on Broadway) & 2026 iHeartRadio Music Award Nominee
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Singer-songwriter, recording artist, and Broadway performer who first gained national recognition on The Voice. She made her Broadway debut as Jane Seymour in SIX: The Musical, earning a 2026 iHeartRadio Music Award nomination for Favorite Broadway Debut. In 2026, Watts joined the Broadway cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical as Satine, further establishing herself as one of theater's rising stars while continuing to release original music and captivate audiences with her powerhouse vocals.
Lauren Mayhew
Celebrity DJ. Actress & Host
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Internationally recognized celebrity DJ, actress, singer, and television host whose career spans music, film, television, and live entertainment. A former member of the Epic/Sony recording group P.Y.T., she has toured with artists including Britney Spears, Destiny's Child, and Katy Perry, while building a successful career as a global DJ with residencies at premier venues including TAO Group's Marquee and LAVO in New York, Park MGM in Las Vegas, and performances across the U.S., Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. As an actress, Mayhew has appeared in hit productions including Dexter, 9-1-1, CSI, Law & Order, The Blacklist, and FBI: Most Wanted. She has also worked as a television host, WWE ring announcer, and songwriter with more than 250 music placements in film, television, and advertising, making her one of entertainment's most versatile multi-hyphenate talents.
Melissa L. Ruiz
4x U.S. National Para Climbing Champion
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC.
Four-time U.S. National Para Climbing Champion and one of Team USA's most accomplished adaptive climbers. Born with cerebral palsy, the Bronx native has transformed determination into elite athletic success, capturing national titles while earning multiple IFSC Para Climbing World Cup medals and a World Championship gold. A leading advocate for adaptive sports, Ruiz continues to inspire others through her resilience, competitive excellence, and pursuit of representing Team USA on the international stage.
Ryan Field
Emmy Award Winning Sports Anchor on ABC 7 NY
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Emmy Award-winning sports anchor for WABC-TV's ABC 7 Eyewitness News in New York, where he anchors the weeknight sports segments at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. A Michigan State University journalism graduate, he joined ABC 7 in 2016 after serving as an anchor and host for Fox Sports 1, where he appeared on FOX Sports Live, MLB on FOX, and MLB WhipAround. Earlier in his career, he covered the Detroit Pistons, Tigers, and Red Wings for Fox Sports Detroit and worked at WJBK-TV and WSYM-TV in Michigan. Over his career, Field has earned seven Michigan Emmy Awards, including multiple honors for Best Sports Anchor, and is recognized for his energetic reporting and in-depth coverage of New York's professional sports teams and major sporting events.
Sean Stellato
Celebrity Sports Agent
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Nationally recognized NFL sports agent, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and author. As founder and president of SES Sports, he represents professional athletes while providing contract negotiation, branding, marketing, and career management services. A former collegiate football player, Stellato gained widespread recognition through his representation of NFL quarterback Tommy DeVito and is known for his passionate advocacy, distinctive style, and commitment to helping athletes succeed both on and off the field.
Yolonda Ross
Actress, writer, director, and producer best known for her portrayal of Jada Washington on the hit television drama The Chi.
Event: 2026 Luxury Experience & Co Pre-ESPYS Celebrity & Athlete Gifting Lounge I 7.13.2026
Location: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manhattan, NYC
Acclaimed actress, writer, and director recognized for her powerful, nuanced performances across film and television. She is best known for starring as Jada Washington in the hit crime drama The Chi and has appeared in acclaimed projects including American Gigolo, The Get Down, and Chi-Raq. As a filmmaker, Ross made her feature directorial debut with Holler If You Hear Me, showcasing her distinctive storytelling voice. Throughout her career, she has earned praise for portraying complex, authentic characters while continuing to make an impact both in front of and behind the camera.
Freddy Jones Band
Rock Band (members Rich Ross & Marty Lloyd)
On Location Interview I Location: Paramount Hotel I Times Square, NYC I 7.13.2026
The Freddy Jones Band (Rich Ross, Marty Lloyd, Ben Loshin, Terry Goldstein) is a legendary Chicago-based roots rock band that has captivated audiences for more than 3 decades w/its signature blend of rock, blues, folk & Americana. Best known for its Billboard-charting hit "In a Daydream," the band built a loyal national following through relentless touring & critically acclaimed albums, becoming a staple of the 1990s AAA & jam-band scene. In 2026, the band reached a historic milestone when "In a Daydream" was selected as wake-up music for NASA's Artemis II astronauts during humanity's first crewed lunar mission around the Moon in over 50yrs
Astronaut Commander Reid Wiseman later shared that "In a Daydream" had been one of his favorite songs for years, dating back to his military deployments. He listened to it before going to sleep because it brought him joy, so he specifically requested NASA play it during the Artemis II mission for himself & his crew
After the mission, the Freddy Jones Band celebrated the honor by releasing new versions of the song, including "In a Daydream (Artemis II Reimagined)" and an "Extended Moon Version," commemorating the song's journey into space.
Greg Nice
Hip Hop Artist and member of Nice & Smooth
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Pioneering Bronx-born rapper, beatboxer, and entertainer best known as one half of the legendary hip-hop duo Nice & Smooth alongside Smooth B. Emerging in the late 1980s, the duo became Golden Age hip-hop icons with classics such as "Funky For You," "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow," "Hip Hop Junkies," and "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow," earning acclaim for their smooth delivery, clever lyricism, and infectious stage presence.
Known for his energetic flow, signature "heeey!" ad-libs, and charismatic live performances, Greg Nice has remained an influential figure in hip-hop for decades. Beyond Nice & Smooth, he has collaborated with artists across multiple generations and continues to perform internationally, release new music, and celebrate hip-hop culture while inspiring both classic and contemporary MCs.
Hakim Bell
President of The Kool Kids Foundation, DJ, producer, rapper, and entertainment entrepreneur
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
American DJ, producer, rapper, and entertainment entrepreneur known for blending classic funk, hip-hop, R&B, and contemporary dance music. The son of Robert 'Kool' Bell, he has built his own career by performing at major festivals, corporate events, celebrity functions, and premier nightlife venues across the U.S. and internationally, while also touring with Kool & the Gang as a featured rapper. Beyond music, Bell serves as president of the Kool Kids Foundation, supporting music education for underserved youth, and promotes his "Celebrate Life" philosophy through entertainment, philanthropy, and community outreach
Marc Goldberg
Senior Vice President of Paradocs & board member of the Kool Kids Foundation
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Business executive and member of the Board of Directors of the Kool Kids Foundation. He contributes his expertise in strategic leadership, corporate partnerships, and organizational development to help advance the foundation's mission of bringing music education and opportunities to children in underserved communities. Through his leadership and advocacy, Goldberg supports initiatives that empower young people through the transformative power of music while helping expand the foundation's impact nationwide
Miss Jones
R&B Recording Artist & TV/Media Personality
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Pioneering radio personality, television host, author, and former R&B recording artist whose influence has helped shape urban radio for more than three decades. Rising to prominence on New York's Hot 97, she became the first Black woman to host a hip-hop morning radio show, earning acclaim for her bold interviewing style and cultural impact. She has also enjoyed a successful music career, collaborating with artists including Doug E. Fresh, AZ, Big L, and Big Pun, and releasing her Motown album The Other Woman.
Today, Jonesy continues to expand her media presence as the host of Jonesy in the Morning, heard on New York's 94.7 The Block (WXBK) and through her digital platforms. She remains an influential voice in entertainment, interviewing top artists, celebrities, and newsmakers while mentoring emerging talent and championing community initiatives. In addition to broadcasting, she is the bestselling author of Have You Met Miss Jones?, further cementing her legacy as one of urban media's most recognizable and respected personalities.
Muhammad Bell
Vice President and Creative Designer of the Kool Kids Foundation
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Entrepreneur, community advocate, and the son of Robert . Born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey, he serves as Vice President of the Kool Kids Foundation, the nonprofit established by his late mother, Sakinah Bell, to support music education and arts programs for underserved youth. Working alongside his father and brother, Hakim Bell, Muhammad helps oversee fundraising initiatives, community outreach, and educational programs that continue the Bell family's legacy of giving back through music.
Rick Cerone
Former MLB Player / NY Yankees Catcher
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Former Major League Baseball catcher, broadcaster, and sports executive whose 18-year MLB career (1975–1992) was defined by durability, leadership, and defensive excellence. A first-round draft pick (7th overall) out of Seton Hall University, Cerone played for 10 MLB franchises, most notably the Cleveland Indians, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Yankees. He enjoyed his best season with the Yankees in 1980, earning a seventh-place finish in the American League MVP voting after batting .277 with 14 home runs and 85 RBIs. Over his career, he appeared in 1,329 games, compiling a .245 batting average with 998 hits, 59 home runs, and 436 RBIs.
Following his playing career, Cerone transitioned into broadcasting before becoming owner of the Newark Bears, helping revive professional baseball in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey. He has remained active in baseball, community initiatives, and charitable causes, while being recognized for his collegiate achievements with induction into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame. Widely respected for his leadership on and off the field, Cerone continues to be celebrated as one of Seton Hall University's greatest baseball alumni and one of the original Toronto Blue Jays who helped establish the franchise
Robert “Kool” Bell
Founding member of Kool and The Gang
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
American bassist, songwriter, and founding member of the legendary funk, soul, and R&B band Kool & the Gang. Formed in Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1964, the group became one of the most successful bands in music history, blending jazz, funk, soul, pop, and R&B into a signature sound.
As the band's bassist and driving force, Bell helped create timeless hits including "Celebration," "Ladies' Night," "Get Down on It," "Joanna," "Cherish," and "Jungle Boogie." Kool & the Gang has earned multiple platinum albums, two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and an enduring global fan base.
Bell has remained the band's leader through decades of touring and recording, preserving its legacy while introducing its music to new generations. In 2024, Kool & the Gang was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing the group's lasting influence on popular music. Today, Robert "Kool" Bell continues to perform worldwide and is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of funk and one of the genre's most influential bassists
Rodney Hampton
Former NFL Player / NY Giants Running Back
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Former NFL running back best known for his successful career with the New York Giants. After starring at the University of Georgia, he was selected in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft. Hampton played his entire seven-season NFL career (1990–1997) with the Giants, earning two Pro Bowl selections (1992, 1993) and becoming one of the franchise's most productive rushers. He surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in five consecutive seasons (1991–1995) and finished his career with 6,897 rushing yards, 49 rushing touchdowns, and more than 8,000 yards from scrimmage. Since retiring from football, Hampton has remained active in community, charitable, and alumni events while being recognized as one of the Giants' all-time standout running backs.
Tammy Williams
2026 West Orange, New Jersey Mayoral Candidate
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
An accomplished public servant, community advocate, and business leader serving on the West Orange Township Council in New Jersey. A trailblazing leader, she made history as the first Black woman elected to the West Orange Town Council and later served as Council President. In 2026, she is a candidate for Mayor of West Orange, campaigning on a vision to reset, reimagine, and move the township forward.
With more than 20 years of experience as a top-producing real estate broker, Williams combines private-sector leadership with a strong commitment to public service. She is the founder of the West Orange Suicide Advocacy Coalition (WOSAC) and the WOSAC Foundation, organizations dedicated to mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and community wellness. She has also served on numerous municipal boards and civic organizations, championing public safety, health, education, and neighborhood engagement.
Tasha Smith
Actress, Director, Producer and Acting Coach
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
An acclaimed actress, director, producer, and acting coach whose career spans more than three decades in film and television. She is widely recognized for memorable performances in Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married? films, For Better or Worse, Empire, and Netflix's Survival of the Thickest.
Beyond acting, Smith has become one of television's most respected directors, helming episodes of hit series including BMF, Bel-Air, P-Valley, Harlem, Mayor of Kingstown, and 9-1-1. She also executive produced and directed projects while continuing to mentor aspiring performers through the Tasha Smith Actors Workshop (TSAW). In 2026, she remains active both in front of and behind the camera, with appearances in high-profile film and television projects and continued recognition for her work as a filmmaker and mentor.
Teddy Tedd
DJ, Producer & Radio Personality
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Pioneering hip-hop DJ, radio personality, producer, and cultural historian whose influence helped shape the early foundation of hip-hop. Best known as one-half of the legendary Awesome 2 alongside Special K, Teddy Tedd co-hosted one of the longest-running hip-hop radio shows in history, beginning in 1982 on New York's WHBI-FM. Their groundbreaking program introduced emerging artists, premiered new music, and helped bring hip-hop into mainstream radio during the genre's formative years.
Beyond radio, Teddy Tedd earned respect as a producer and DJ, contributing to classic recordings by artists including Nice & Smooth, Ed O.G. & Da Bulldogs, and Ms. Melodie, while also co-producing The History of Rap series, one of the first recorded retrospectives of hip-hop culture.
Thomas McClary
Founder and original lead guitarist of The Commodores.
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
American guitarist, songwriter, producer, and founding member of the legendary Motown group The Commodores. Formed at Tuskegee University in 1968 alongside Lionel Richie and the band's original members, McClary helped shape the group's signature blend of funk, soul, R&B, and pop. As lead guitarist, he is especially recognized for his acclaimed guitar solo on the classic hit "Easy" and for co-writing or contributing to songs including "Brick House," "Slippery When Wet," and "Too Hot ta Trot."
After leaving The Commodores in 1984, McClary pursued a solo career, worked as a producer and songwriter for other artists, and later focused on gospel music and ministry. He has also released solo projects, authored a memoir, and continues performing with The Commodores Featuring Thomas McClary, celebrating the music and legacy of the iconic group he helped create.
Vincent Brown aka Vin Rock
Hip Hop Artist and founding member Naughty by Nature.
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
American rapper best known as a founding member of the legendary hip-hop trio Naughty by Nature. Formed in East Orange, New Jersey, the group rose to international fame in the early 1990s with Grammy-winning, multi-platinum hits including "O.P.P.," "Hip Hop Hooray," and "Feel Me Flow," helping bridge mainstream success with authentic East Coast hip-hop.
Known for his smooth delivery, energetic stage presence, and signature call-and-response vocals, Vin Rock has remained an integral part of Naughty by Nature's legacy. Alongside Treach and DJ Kay Gee, he has continued touring worldwide, celebrating the group's enduring influence on hip-hop culture and their status as one of the genre's most recognizable and respected acts.
Waliyy “Main Event” Dixon
Former AND1 Pro Street Basketball Player and Podcast Host
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
American streetball legend from Linden, New Jersey, who rose to international fame as one of the original stars of the AND1 Mixtape Tour. A former standout at Linden High School and Rutgers University, Dixon became renowned for his electrifying dunks, creativity, and leadership at Harlem's famed Rucker Park, helping popularize streetball worldwide. After his playing career, he co-founded the Ball4Real Tour and has remained active in youth mentorship, player development, and community outreach through organizations dedicated to advancing street basketball and creating opportunities for the next generation.
In 2026 he continues supporting youth development through basketball initiatives and mentoring young athletes, building on his long-standing involvement with S.K.Y. (Serving Knowledge to Youth) Streetball Syndicate, which focuses on community outreach and player development.
He is also the host and executive of the New Jersey based podcast “The Main Event”
William Roberts
Former NFL Player / NY Giants Offensive Lineman
Event: 5th Annual Kool Kids Foundation Day Party I 7.12.2026
Location: West Orange, NJ
Former NFL offensive lineman who enjoyed a successful 13-season professional career after starring at Ohio State University. Selected by the New York Giants with the 27th overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft, Roberts became a cornerstone of the Giants' offensive line, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1990 while helping the team win Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV. He later played for the New England Patriots, appearing in Super Bowl XXXI, and finished his career with the New York Jets. Over 195 NFL games (154 starts), Roberts built a reputation as a durable, versatile guard and tackle known for his strength, consistency, and championship pedigree.
Amber Lee
Reggae, dancehall, and R&B Singer-Songwriter
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performer”
Brooklyn-born reggae, dancehall, and R&B singer-songwriter of Trinidadian and Jamaican heritage known for blending Caribbean rhythms with soulful vocals and contemporary influences. She first gained attention with her 2017 EP Many Good Age and has since released a string of singles including Sweet Love, Burning Fire, DND, Come Come, and 2026 collaborations such as On a Whim and Feels Like Yin & Yang (Remix). A seasoned live performer, Amber Lee has appeared at venues including Broadway's Rocktopia, B.B. King's, Kings Theatre, Hot 97's "On the Reggae & Soca Tip," and numerous Caribbean festivals. She continues to build her reputation as an emerging voice in modern reggae, recognized for her energetic performances, songwriting, and entrepreneurial spirit
Lil Nat
Radio personality, Producer, and Media host
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Co-Host”
Veteran New York radio personality, producer, and media host best known for her years as the popular overnight host on Hot 97 and 98.7 Kiss FM. Nicknamed the "Overnight Queen," she built a loyal following through celebrity interviews, music programming, and coverage of major events such as Summer Jam and Hot 97's On the Reggae Tip.
A Brooklyn native of Jamaican heritage and a graduate of NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, Lil Nat later founded Digital Empire Nation, an independently produced and syndicated radio show spotlighting music, entertainment, and culture. Beyond radio, she has worked as a television host, actress, writer, and advocate for breast cancer awareness, continuing to be a respected voice in urban media and independent broadcasting.
Nesta
Reggae, Lovers Rock, and Contemporary Caribbean Artist
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performer”
Jamaican-American reggae, lovers rock, and contemporary Caribbean artist from Jamaica, Queens. Drawing on his Jamaican heritage, he blends roots reggae, dancehall, lovers rock, and modern R&B into a distinctive sound. A former drummer and producer, NESTA has gained recognition for his smooth vocals, emotionally driven songwriting, and songs such as "Outside," while building a growing international audience through streaming platforms, festival appearances, and collaborations. By 2026, he had established himself as one of the emerging voices in contemporary reggae, earning a nomination for Best New Reggae Artist at the Caribbean Music Awards and continuing to expand his presence in the global reggae scene.
Noah Powa
Dancehall & Reggae Artist, DJ, Actor, and Entertainer
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performer”
Jamaican dancehall and reggae artist, DJ, actor, and entertainer known for blending uplifting lyrics, Caribbean rhythms, and high-energy performances. Raised in Kingston, Jamaica, and later based in New York, he first gained recognition as a selector, actor, and social media personality before launching a successful recording career. Noah Powa has collaborated with artists including Shaggy, Maxi Priest, Wyclef Jean, Ding Dong, and Konshens, with music featured on major reggae compilations and Grammy-nominated projects. As of 2026, he continues to expand his international presence with new releases, festival appearances, and performances while promoting positive, motivational dancehall music.
Rayvon
Reggae, Dancehall, and R&B Singer
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performer”
Barbadian-born, Brooklyn-raised reggae, dancehall, and R&B singer best known for his longtime musical partnership with Shaggy. The duo achieved international success with hits including "Big Up," "In the Summertime," and the Grammy-winning era smash "Angel," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global hit.
As a solo artist, Rayvon has released albums including Hear My Cry (1997) and My Bad (2002), along with fan favorites such as "Pretty"No Guns No Murder," " and "Bashment Party." Known for blending reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and pop influences, he has continued recording, touring internationally, and releasing new independent music through his own label, GTC Entertainment, including several new singles in 2025–
Roxy Romeo
iHeartRadio Host, Voiceover Artist, and Media Personality
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Co-Host”
Nationally syndicated radio personality, voice-over artist, and event host with iHeartRadio. Based in Philadelphia, she is a featured host on Power 99 and can be heard across more than 60 U.S. radio markets. Known for her energetic on-air presence and engaging interviews, she has earned recognition for her contributions to broadcasting and community service. A proud Trinidadian-American, Roxy is also a passionate advocate for maternal health and women's issues, balancing her media career with family life as a wife and mother of two
Shuga
Reggae and Dancehall Singer-Songwriter
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performer”
Jamaican reggae and dancehall singer-songwriter from Montego Bay, celebrated for her powerful three-octave vocal range and versatility across roots reggae, lovers rock, dancehall, and contemporary Caribbean music. She rose to national prominence after winning the 2009 Digicel Rising Stars competition and has since collaborated with reggae icons including Marcia Griffiths, Judy Mowatt, Sly & Robbie, Queen Ifrica, Bugle, and Agent Sasco. A frequent performer at major festivals such as Reggae Sumfest, Rebel Salute, Reggae Jam, and Rototom Sunsplash, Shuga is known for blending uplifting messages of love, empowerment, and social justice into her music. In 2026, she continued building momentum toward the release of her debut album, Girl From Montego Bay, while expanding her international touring presence.
Tanto Metro & Devonte
Dancehall Reggae Recording Artists
Event: Shaggy Yaad Live I 7.9.2026
Location: Central Park SummerStage, Rumsey Playfield, NYC
“Performers”
Pioneering Jamaican dancehall duo consisting of deejay Mark "Tanto Metro" Wolfe and singer Wayne "Devonte" Passley. Rising to international fame in the late 1990s, they helped bring dancehall into the mainstream with crossover hits including "Everyone Falls in Love," "Say Wooee," and "Give It to Her." Their blend of melodic vocals, infectious rhythms, and energetic performances earned them chart success worldwide and established them as one of dancehall's most recognizable acts.
As of 2026, Tanto Metro & Devonte remain active recording and performing, releasing new singles while continuing to tour internationally. More than 25 years into their career, they are widely respected as influential veterans whose music helped shape the global popularity of modern dancehall and reggae fusion.
Ariana DeBose
Actress, Singer, and Dancer
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
Academy Award-winning actress, singer, and dancer celebrated for her dynamic work across film, television, and Broadway. She won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Anita in West Side Story and has also received a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and SAG Award. A Tony Award nominee for Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, DeBose has appeared in acclaimed productions including Hamilton, Wish, and Argylle. She is also a sought-after host and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the arts.
Bernie Wagenblast
Transportation Journalist, Broadcaster, Voice Actor, and Podcaster
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
“Grand Marshal”
Broadcaster, transportation journalist, voice-over artist, and public transit announcer. Best known as the longtime voice of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey AirTrain systems and numerous transit networks, she has spent decades reporting on transportation and infrastructure. In 2023, Wagenblast publicly came out as a transgender woman and has since become a visible advocate for transgender inclusion and authenticity while continuing her broadcasting career
Bowen Yang
Actor, Comedian, Writer, and Podcaster
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
“Grand Marshal”
Emmy-nominated actor, comedian, writer, and podcaster best known as a former cast member on Saturday Night Live, where he made history as the show's first Chinese American repertory player. He gained acclaim for his sharp comedic performances and has appeared in projects including Fire Island, Wicked, and The Wedding Banquet. Yang also co-hosts the popular comedy podcast Las Culturistas and is recognized as one of today's most influential voices in comedy and entertainment.
Chuck Schumer
U.S. Senator from New York and Senate Democratic Leader
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
American politician serving as the senior U.S. senator from New York and the Senate Democratic Leader. First elected to the Senate in 1998, he previously served as Senate Majority Leader from 2021 to 2025 and has played a central role in shaping Democratic legislative strategy on issues including infrastructure, healthcare, judicial appointments, technology, and economic policy. A longtime advocate for New York, Schumer remains one of the Democratic Party's most influential national leaders.
Dominique Jackson
Trinidad and Tobago-born Actress, Model, Author, and LGBTQ+ Advocate
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
“Grand Marshal”
Trinidad and Tobago-born actress, model, author, and LGBTQ+ advocate best known for her groundbreaking portrayal of Elektra Abundance on the FX series “Pose”. A trailblazer for transgender representation in entertainment, she has also appeared in Chick Fight and Queens of the Dead while using her platform to champion equality, visibility, and the rights of transgender people.
Donovan Richards
Queens Borough President
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
A lifelong Southeast Queens resident and former New York City Council member, he has focused on affordable housing, infrastructure, public safety, environmental resilience, parks, education, and economic development. Re-elected to a second full term beginning in 2026, Richards continues to oversee major capital investments and neighborhood planning initiatives while advocating for the borough's diverse communities.
Doris Dear
Fictional Female Actor, Cabaret Singer and Comedian created and played by Ray DeForest
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
Long-running stage persona of performer Ray DeForest. Styled as a nostalgic “American housewife,” Doris Dear is a comedic and heartfelt character used to frame autobiographical storytelling, music, and theatrical cabaret performances
Ray DeForest, working behind the character, is a SAG-AFTRA performer and writer whose work centers on creating intimate, character-driven stage experiences that blur the line between drag performance, theater, and storytelling.
Harvey Guillen
Actor & Producer
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
Mexican-American actor and producer best known for his breakout role as Guillermo de la Cruz in the FX comedy What We Do in the Shadows. A Critics Choice Award nominee, he has also earned acclaim for his voice work in Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Wish, The Garfield Movie, and Harley Quinn. Beyond film and television, Guillén is a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate and one of the first openly queer Latino actors nominated for a Critics Choice acting award. In 2026, he expanded his career to Broadway, making his debut in The Rocky Horror Show
Jumaane Williams
NYC Public Advocate
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
A Brooklyn native of Grenadian heritage, he previously represented Brooklyn's 45th District on the New York City Council, where he championed police accountability, affordable housing, gun violence prevention, and government transparency. Re-elected in 2025, he continues to serve as an independent voice in city government, focusing on civil rights, public safety, tenant protections, and policies aimed at improving the lives of New Yorkers.
Mark D. Levine
NYC Comptroller
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
American politician serving as the 52nd New York City Comptroller since January 2026. Previously Manhattan Borough President and an eight-year New York City Council member, he is known for championing affordable housing, tenant protections, public health, climate resilience, and government accountability. Before entering public office, Levine was a bilingual math and science teacher and founded Neighborhood Trust Federal Credit Union to expand financial access for underserved communities.
Peppermint
Actress, Singer, Songwriter, Television Personality, Drag Queen, and LGBTQ+ Activist
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
“Grand Marshal”
Actress, singer, songwriter, television personality, drag queen, and LGBTQ+ activist. Rising to international fame as the runner-up on RuPaul's Drag Race, she made history as the first openly transgender woman to originate a principal role on Broadway in the musical “Head Over Heels”. She has since built a multifaceted career across television, music, theater, and advocacy, using her platform to champion transgender visibility and equality.
Sirens Women's+ MC of NYC
President Brooke "Savage" Severance & Pride Coordinator Erika “Chaos” Yu
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
Oldest and largest women's motorcycle club in New York City. Founded in 1986, the club promotes safe riding, community service, inclusivity, and camaraderie among women+, including cisgender women, transgender women, and nonbinary riders. The Sirens have proudly led New York City's LGBTQ+ Pride March since 1987 and remain active in charitable initiatives, women's health advocacy, and motorcycle education.
Thomas DiNapoli
NYS Comptroller
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
American politician serving as New York State Comptroller since 2007. A Democrat, he oversees the state's finances, audits government agencies and local governments, and manages the New York State Common Retirement Fund—one of the nation's largest public pension funds. In 2026, DiNapoli won the Democratic primary for a fifth full term and is seeking reelection in the November general election, campaigning on his record of fiscal oversight, transparency, and pension fund stewardship.
Vanessa L. Gibson
Bronx Borough President
Event: 2026 NYC Pride March I 6.28.2026
Location: 5th Avenue, NYC
American politician serving as the 14th Bronx Borough President. First elected in 2021 and re-elected in 2025, she is the first woman and first Black person to hold the office. A Democrat, Gibson previously served in the New York City Council and the New York State Assembly, and continues to focus on affordable housing, public safety, education, economic development, health equity, and expanding opportunities for Bronx residents.
Michael Passons
Christian Music Artist, former member of Avalon & LGBTQ+ Advocate
On Location Interview I Location: Lounge Studios NY I NYC I 6.26.2026
Following the Groundbreaking #1 iTunes Chart Achievement, Country Superstar Ty Herndon, Avalon’s Michael Passons and Melissa Greene Drop Dave Audé Remix Video for "Testify To Love"
American singer-songwriter, pianist & composer best known as a founding member of the contemporary Christian music group Avalon. During his 8 yrs w/the group, he helped earn multiple Dove Awards, Grammy nominations, an American Music Award, and numerous No. 1 Christian radio hits, including "Testify to Love." Since leaving Avalon in 2003, he has continued performing as a solo artist & advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, collaborating w/artists such as Ty Herndon & Kristin Chenoweth. In 2026, Passons drew renewed attention by publicly sharing additional details about his departure from Avalon, discussing the challenges of being a gay artist in the contemporary Christian music industry.
Ty Herndon
Country Music Artist & LGBTQ+ Advocate
On Location Interview I Location: Lounge Studios NY I NYC I 6.26.2026
Following the Groundbreaking #1 iTunes Chart Achievement, Country Superstar Ty Herndon, Avalon’s Michael Passons and Melissa Greene Drop Dave Audé Remix Video for "Testify To Love"
American country music singer best known for his 1990s hits, including "What Mattered Most," "Living in a Moment," & "It Must Be Love." A three-time Billboard No. 1 artist & the 1st major male country singer to publicly come out as gay, he has become a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, mental health & addiction recovery through his Concert for Love + Acceptance and Foundation for Love + Acceptance. In 2025, he celebrated the 30th anniversary of his breakthrough hit w/the retrospective album THIRTY & in 2026 released his debut memoir, What Mattered Most, chronicling his career, recovery & journey to self-acceptance
Guy Nardulli
Actor
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Vernon Reynolds”
Actor, writer, producer, and former police officer known for his roles in Sylvester Stallone’s “Tulsa King” and “Big Mistakes”. He is recognized for his gritty, character-driven performances and for drawing on his law enforcement experience in his creative work.
Jay Huguley
Actor
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Ry Riley”
Actor known for his work in television and film. He has appeared in series including The Walking Dead, True Detective, The Purge, Cape Fear, and Lioness. He is recognized for portraying authoritative, military, and law enforcement characters, Huguley has built a versatile career across drama, action, thriller, and Western genres.
Lisa G. Black
Award Winning Producer & Filmmaking
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Producer”
Award-winning producer, creative executive, global business strategist & manager. Co Chair of the Producers Guild of America, Capital. Artistic Chair & Board member of Rehoboth Beach International Film Festival . She founded Garnet Girl Media, is Sr. Executive Vice president of development at Rolling Pictures and SNL Film LLC. Widely recognized for her expertise in packaging, marketing & distribution, Black has produced, financed & distributed dozens of international and domestic independent feature films. Published Poet and SAG -E
Michael Genet
Actor
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Cornelius Blackwood”
Stage, film, and television actor and writer with a career spanning theater, independent cinema, and network television. His television credits include Law & Order, Billions, and Blue Bloods. His film work includes She Hate Me, One Fine Day, and 25th Hour. A veteran of the New York theater scene, Genet has appeared in many Broadway productions including A Few Good Men, Hamlet, and The Prom.
Nick Wilkinson
Writer, Director and Producer
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Writer & Director”
Writer, screenwriter, and director whose career spans novels, television, and film. Drawing on his high-tech industry experience, he authored the novels Snakes and Ladders and its sequel Pay Day (under the pen name John Willins), later adapting them for television. He also created the pilot Jimmy Hong, a detective series set during the Korean War. As a filmmaker, Wilkinson wrote and directed the short film The Fast Track Program and the political mystery Death on the Brandywine. His next feature is Still Alive (and Kicking), a feel-good soccer comedy. Originally from England, he is a naturalized U.S. citizen who has also lived in Australia and worked around the world.
Satomi Hofmann
Actress
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Professor Millie Park”
Multidisciplinary Broadway, film, and television actress, singer, and musician. Based in New York City, she was a mainstay in the cast of Broadway's longest running musical, The Phantom of the Opera. Her film credits include M. Night Shyamalan's Knock at the Cabin and the short film The Fast Track Program (written and directed by Nick Wilkinson), for which she received multiple Best Actress nominations. In television, she is known for Law & Order: Organized Crime and FBI: Most Wanted. She is currently starring in Masquerade NYC, the world's first immersive musical and 2026 recipient of the Drama Desk Special Award.
Shanley Caswell
Actress
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Shanley Caswell”
Actress known for her work in film and television. She starred in the horror film Detention and The Conjuring, and in television series including Power Book III: Raising Kanan, NCIS: New Orleans, CSI: NY, and Bones. Caswell has worked across genres, from independent film to studio features and network television, and continues to build a diverse body of work.
Steven Pivnik
Executive Producer, Entrepreneur & Iron Man Competitor
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Executive Producer”
Bestselling author, keynote and TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and endurance athlete. He founded and led Binary Tree for 26 years, growing the software company into a global business before its successful acquisition by Quest Software. Best known for his book Built to Finish, Pivnik now advises entrepreneurs on business growth and successful exits while speaking internationally on leadership, resilience, and high performance. An accomplished endurance athlete, he has completed the IRONMAN World Championship, ultramarathons, and summited Mount Everest, drawing on those experiences to inspire others to achieve ambitious goals.
Tuc Watkins
Actor
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Sean Riley”
Actor with an extensive career in television, film, and theater. He is currently recurring on Paradise, S.W.A.T., and Criminal Minds. He is best known for his daytime soap work as David Vickers on One Life to Live and for playing Bob Hunter on Desperate Housewives. Additional credits include Black Monday, The Mummy Returns, The Other Two, and Uncoupled, along with co-starring in The Boys in the Band on Broadway and reprising his role in the Netflix feature film adaptation.
Walt Willey
Actor, Comedian & TV Personality
Event: Pre-Launch Party w/the Cast & Crew of “Death on The Brandywine” I 6.24.2026
Location: Tara Rose I NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Senator Daniel Riley”
Walt Willey is an American actor, comedian, and television personality best known for playing Jackson Montgomery on the long-running daytime soap opera All My Children. With a career spanning more than four decades, he has also appeared on General Hospital, in films, and on stage as a stand-up comedian. In addition to acting, Willey has been active in charitable work and fan events, remaining a well-known figure in daytime television.
Fab Morvan
Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, and Actor
On Location Interview I Location: Lounge Studios NY I NYC I On Location “Exclusive” I 6.23.2026
Fab Morvan is a French singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor best known as one-half of the pop duo Milli Vanilli alongside Rob Pilatus. The group achieved worldwide success in the late 1980s with hits such as "Girl You Know It's True," earning a Grammy Award before becoming embroiled in a lip-syncing scandal that led to the award being revoked. Following the group's dissolution, Morvan rebuilt his career as a solo artist, performer, DJ, and advocate, sharing his experiences through music, public speaking, and media appearances.
BD Wong
Actor
Event: “Hadestown: The Musical” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.8.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I OKX Theater at BMCC TPAC, NYC
“Red Carpet VIP Guest Attendee”
BD Wong is an award-winning American actor, director, and advocate best known for his work across film, television, and theater. He rose to prominence with his Tony Award-winning performance in M. Butterfly and is widely recognized for roles such as Dr. George Huang on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Dr. Henry Wu in the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchises, and Whiterose in Mr. Robot. Born in San Francisco in 1960, Wong has built a distinguished career spanning stage, film, and television while also serving as a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ representation and advocacy.
Brett Sullivan
Australian film director, producer and Broadway Director
Event: “Hadestown: The Musical” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.8.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I OKX Theater at BMCC TPAC, NYC
“Director”
Brett Sullivan is an Australian filmmaker, director, and producer based in London. A co-founder of Steam Motion and Sound, he is best known for directing acclaimed filmed stage productions and concert films, including Billy Elliot: The Musical Live, Miss Saigon, Newsies, Waitress, The Prince of Egypt, and Aladdin. He has also directed music videos and television specials for major artists such as Michael Bublé, Phil Collins, and Seal. His documentary Special When Lit earned critical acclaim, and his work has helped pioneer the cinematic presentation of live theater for global audiences.
Akon
Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, record producer, and philanthropist
Event: An Intimate Chat & Live Performance with Akon hosted by Astra of 103.5 KTU I 6.8.2026
Location: Maybelline Sound Studio I iHeartRadio HQ, NYC
Multi-Grammy Nominated Recording Artist who rose to international fame with hits such as Locked Up, Lonely, Smack That, Don't Matter, and Right Now (Na Na Na), while also helping launch and develop the careers of artists through his Konvict Muzik label.
In 2026, Akon remains active as both a recording artist and live performer. He released his latest album, Beautiful Day, marking his first major studio album in years and showcasing his continued focus on uplifting, globally inspired music.
A major highlight of 2026 is Akon's co-headlining “Nights Like This” Global Tour with fellow Grammy-winning artist Ne-Yo. The 57-city tour spans Europe and North America, celebrating the chart-topping hits that defined an era of R&B and pop music.
Hugo Ruiz
Filmmaker, Writer and Director
Event: “Dante” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Village East by Angelika, NYC
“Writer and Director”
Hugo Ruiz is a Spanish filmmaker known for his stylish, high-intensity thrillers. He gained international recognition with the acclaimed feature One Night with Adela, which won the Best New Narrative Director Award at the 2023 Tribeca Festival. Ruiz returned to Tribeca in 2026 with Dante, a fast-paced crime thriller set over a single night in Madrid starring Chino Darín and Ester Expósito. Known for blending suspense, dark humor, and visceral storytelling, Ruiz has emerged as one of Spain's most promising contemporary genre directors.
Christopher Meloni
Actor
Event: “Bound” 30th Anniversary Red Carpet Movie Screening I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Johnnie Marzzone”
Christopher Meloni (born April 2, 1961) is an American actor best known for portraying Detective Elliot Stabler on the long-running NBC crime drama Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and its spin-off Law & Order: Organized Crime. He first gained widespread acclaim as inmate Chris Keller on HBO’s Oz and earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for his work on SVU. Meloni has also appeared in films including Runaway Bride, Wet Hot American Summer, and Man of Steel. Known for his intense dramatic performances, sharp comedic timing, and enduring popularity with television audiences, he remains one of the most recognizable actors in crime drama television.
Gina Gershon
Actress
Event: “Bound” 30th Anniversary Red Carpet Movie Screening I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Corky”
Gina Gershon is an American actress, singer, and author best known for her bold and versatile performances in film, television, and theater. She gained widespread recognition for roles in Bound, Showgirls, and Face/Off. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Gershon has appeared in numerous movies, TV series, and Broadway productions, earning acclaim for her dynamic screen presence and ability to portray both dramatic and comedic characters. She remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Jennifer Tilly
Actress, Voice Artist & Professional Poker Player
Event: “Bound” 30th Anniversary Red Carpet Movie Screening I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Violet”
Jennifer Tilly is a Canadian-American actress, voice artist, and professional poker player. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the film Bullets Over Broadway and is widely known for roles in Bound, Liar Liar, and the Child's Play franchise as Tiffany Valentine. Tilly also voices Bonnie Swanson on the long-running TV series Family Guy. Beyond acting, she is an accomplished poker player, having won a World Series of Poker bracelet in 2005. Known for her distinctive voice, comedic timing, and versatile career, Tilly has remained a prominent figure in both entertainment and professional poker..
Joe Pantoliano
Actor
Event: “Bound” 30th Anniversary Red Carpet Movie Screening I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Caesar”
Joe Pantoliano is an Emmy Award-winning American actor known for his versatility across film & television. A New Jersey native, he has built a career spanning more than four decades. Pantoliano is widely recognized for memorable roles such as Cypher in The Matrix, Teddy in Memento, Ralph Cifaretto in The Sopranos, Francis Fratelli in The Goonies & Captain Conrad Howard in the Bad Boys franchise.
Lilly Wachowski
Writer, Director & Producer
Event: “Bound” 30th Anniversary Red Carpet Movie Screening I 6.7.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Writer & Director”
Lilly Wachowski is an American filmmaker, writer, and producer best known for co-creating and directing the groundbreaking science-fiction franchise The Matrix alongside her sister, Lana Wachowski. Born on December 29, 1967, in Chicago, she has also co-created acclaimed works including Cloud Atlas, Jupiter Ascending, and the television series Sense8. Lilly publicly came out as transgender in 2016 and is recognized as a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility in entertainment. Her work is celebrated for its innovative storytelling, visual style, and exploration of identity, freedom, and human connection.
Morgan Kohan
Actress
Event: “Holo” Red Carpet Short Film Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Claire”
Morgan Kohan is a Canadian actress best known for playing Lillian Walsh in the Hallmark drama series When Hope Calls and Dr. Maggie Sullivan in the hit drama series Sullivan's Crossing. Born on December 30, 1993, in British Columbia, Canada, she trained at Randolph Academy's Triple Threat Program before transitioning from competitive dance to acting. Her screen credits include Ransom, Batwoman, Star Trek: Discovery, Love on Harbor Island, and Kitty Mammas. Kohan has become one of Canada's rising television stars, earning recognition for her leading roles in heartfelt drama series.
Shane West
Actor
Event: “Holo” Red Carpet Short Film Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Jared”
Shane West is an American actor, musician & songwriter best known for playing Landon Carter in the hit romantic drama A Walk to Remember. He first gained recognition as Eli Sammler in the TV drama Once & Again and later became widely known for his roles as Dr. Ray Barnett in ER, Michael Bishop in Nikita & John Alden in Salem. In film, he has also appeared in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen & portrayed punk-rock singer Darby Crash in What We Do Is Secret. Alongside acting, West has been active in music, performing w/the reunited punk band The Germs.
Jamie Adams
Welsh Filmmaker
Event: “Only What We Carry” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I SVA Theater, NYC
“Director”
Jamie Adams is a British independent filmmaker, writer, and producer known for his fast-paced, improvisational filmmaking style. He gained recognition with films such as Black Mountain Poets (2015), Wild Honey Pie! (2018), Love Spreads (2021), and She Is Love (2022).
Marc-Antoine Barrois
French Couture Fashion Designer
Event: “Only What We Carry” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I SVA Theater, NYC
“Producer”
is a French fashion designer, couturier, and fragrance entrepreneur known for blending understated luxury with modern elegance. After training in fashion and working with renowned houses including Hermès and Dominique Sirop, he founded his own Paris-based couture house in 2009, specializing in bespoke menswear. He later expanded into niche perfumery through a celebrated collaboration with perfumer Quentin Bisch, launching acclaimed fragrances such as B683 and Ganymede. Today, his brand is recognized internationally for combining haute couture craftsmanship with innovative artistic perfumery.
Simon Pegg
English actor, comedian, producer, screenwriter, and director
Event: “Only What We Carry” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I SVA Theater, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Julien”
Simon Pegg is an English actor, writer, comedian, and producer best known for blending comedy, science fiction, and action. He rose to fame as co-creator and star of the cult TV series Spaced and later co-wrote and starred in the acclaimed “Three Flavours Cornetto” films: Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End. He is also widely recognized for playing Benji Dunn in the Mission: Impossible III and subsequent Mission: Impossible films, as well as Scotty in the modern Star Trek movies. Pegg is celebrated for his sharp wit, geek-culture appeal, and successful transition from British comedy to major Hollywood blockbusters
Sofia Boutella
Algerian model, actress, and dancer
Event: “Only What We Carry” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.6.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I SVA Theater, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Charlotte”
Sofia Boutella is an Algerian-French actress, dancer, and model best known for transitioning from a successful dance career—including performing with Madonna and appearing in Nike campaigns—to becoming a leading action and sci-fi star. Born in Algiers, Algeria, she trained in dance and rhythmic gymnastics before breaking into acting with roles such as Gazelle in Kingsman: The Secret Service, Jaylah in Star Trek Beyond, Princess Ahmanet in The Mummy, and Kora in Rebel Moon. Known for her athleticism, screen presence, and action roles, she has established herself as one of Hollywood's most recognizable dancer-turned-actresses.
Asante Blackk
Actor
Event: “You Tryna’ Say You Love Me” Red Carpet Short Film Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Jerrod”
Asante Blackk is an American actor best known for his breakout performance as young Kevin Richardson in the acclaimed Netflix miniseries When They See Us (2019). His powerful portrayal earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination, making him one of the youngest nominees in the award's history.
Following that breakthrough, Blackk gained further recognition as Malik Hodges on the hit drama series This Is Us, where his performance earned additional critical praise & a Critics' Choice Television Award nomination.
His film credits include Landscape with Invisible Hand (2023) & Story Ave (2023) & he has also provided voice work for The Proud Family: Louder & Prouder
Malia Pyles
Actress
Event: “You Tryna’ Say You Love Me” Red Carpet Short Film Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Chloe”
Malia Pyles (Cast Member / Role: Chloe) is an American actress best known for playing Minnie “Mouse” Honrada in the HBO Max/Max series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin (later subtitled Summer School). She previously had recurring roles as Sarah Baskets in Baskets and Parker Torres in Batwoman.
Pyles has also spoken publicly about the importance of Filipina and LGBTQ+ representation in television, particularly through her work on Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin.
Ty Molbak
Actor, Writer & Director & Producer
Event: “You Tryna’ Say You Love Me” Red Carpet Short Film Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Spring Studios, NYC
“Writer, Director & Producer”
2026 romantic drama short film written and directed by Ty Molbak. The story follows Jerrod, a freshman college athlete struggling with grief after the loss of his mother and a career-altering shoulder injury, and Chloe, a classmate from his philosophy seminar. During a late-night study break, their conversation evolves into a deeply personal exploration of love, language, vulnerability, and emotional expression.
Ty Molbak is an American actor, director, and filmmaker who was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and on Whidbey Island, Washington. He trained as a ballet dancer before earning a B.F.A. in Acting from Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts.
Molbak has appeared in films such as the Damien Chazelle-directed Babylon, Next Exit, and Immortality. His television credits include Katy Keene and PBC.
On stage, he has performed Off-Broadway in The Sabbath Girl and appeared in productions of Richard II and Henry IV, Part 1 at Shakespeare's Globe.
Annabelle Attanasio
Actress, Writer & Filmmaker
Event: “Lucy Schulman” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Village East by Angelika, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Eden”
Annabelle Attanasio is an American actress, writer, and director best known for playing Cable McCrory on the CBS legal drama Bull (2016–2018). Born in Los Angeles on May 11, 1993, she is the daughter of television producers and filmmakers Paul Attanasio and Katie Jacobs.
Attanasio first gained attention with roles in the TV series The Knick and the Netflix film Barry before becoming a series regular on Bull. In 2018, she left the show to focus on filmmaking.
As a filmmaker, she wrote and directed the acclaimed independent drama Mickey and the Bear, which premiered at SXSW in 2019 and established her as a promising writer-director. She has also directed several short films, including Frankie Keeps Talking and Safe Space.
David Cross
Stand-Up Comedian, Actor, Writer & Director
Event: “Lucy Schulman” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Village East by Angelika, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: Peter”
David Cross is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and producer best known for his sharp, satirical comedy and influential work in television. He gained cult status as co-creator and star of the HBO sketch comedy series Mr. Show with Bob and David alongside Bob Odenkirk and became widely recognized for portraying Tobias Fünke in the acclaimed sitcom Arrested Development.
Beyond stand-up and television, Cross has appeared in numerous films, including the Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise as Ian Hawke, Scary Movie 2, and has provided voice work for animated hits such as Kung Fu Panda and Megamind. He is an Emmy Award-winning writer and has released several acclaimed stand-up specials and comedy albums.
Ellie Sachs
Filmmaker, Writer, and Actress
Event: “Lucy Schulman” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Village East by Angelika, NYC
“Writer, Director & Cast Member/Role: Lucy Schulman”
Lucy Schulman is an upcoming American comedy-drama and coming-of-age film written, directed by, and starring Ellie Sachs. The story follows Lucy, a woman in her late twenties who, after a painful breakup, moves back in with her eccentric father and navigates dating, friendship, and self-discovery in New York City.
Ellie Sachs is a NYC based actor, writer, director & filmmaker who has emerged as a notable voice in independent comedy & coming-of-age storytelling. She is best known for creating, writing, directing & starring in projects that blend humor w/personal & relatable life experiences.
Sachs 1st gained attention with the acclaimed short film Proof of Concept (2023), which premiered at the Tribeca Festival & was later acquired by The New Yorker. She also co-created & starred in the comedy series Ad World and has hosted the food-focused web series Where Should I Eat for Time Out New York.
Thomas Mann
Actor
Event: “Lucy Schulman” Red Carpet Movie Premiere I 6.5.2026
Location: Tribeca Film Festival I Village East by Angelika, NYC
“Cast Member/Role: James”
Thomas Mann is an American film and television actor known for his mix of comedic, dramatic, and coming-of-age roles. Born on September 27, 1991, in Portland, Oregon, and raised in Dallas, Texas, he moved to California as a teenager to pursue acting.
Mann first gained attention as Thomas Kub in the hit teen comedy Project X (2012), which launched his film career. He went on to star in Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015), earning widespread praise for his performance as Greg Gaines, a high school student navigating friendship, illness, and growing up.
His other notable film credits include Kong: Skull Island, Beautiful Creatures, Fun Size, The Highwaymen, Lady and the Tramp, and Halloween Kills. On television, he appeared in the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty and the Apple TV+ miniseries Lessons in Chemistry.
La La Anthony
TV personality, Actress, Producer, Author, and Entrepreneur
Event: Time 100 Gala I 4.23.2026
Location: Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall, Manhattan, NYC
VIP Guest Attendee
Multi-hyphenate entertainment figure who first rose to fame in the early 2000s as an MTV VJ on Total Request Live. She transitioned into acting and producing, becoming widely recognized for her role as Lakeisha Grant on the hit Starz series Power.
She has appeared in movies like Think Like a Man and shows including BMF and The Chi, along with headlining VH1 shows like La La’s Full Court Wedding and reunion specials.
Most recently, she hosted the Met Gala red carpet livestream for the 6th consecutive year (2026), reinforcing her status in fashion/media and continues acting in TV (notably BMF) and developing new projects, including a Hulu series (Group Chat).
Mashama Bailey
Chef and Restaurateur
Event: Time 100 Gala I 4.23.2026
Location: Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall, Manhattan, NYC
2026 Time 100 Most Influential People Honoree
Named to the 2026 Time Magazine Most Influential People List, Mashama is one of the most respected chefs in the U.S., known for blending Southern cuisine with history, storytelling, and fine-dining technique.
She has received the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast (one of the highest honors in U.S. food), named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs (2015) & Co-authored of the book Black, White, and The Grey
She is the Executive Chef and co-owner of “The Grey” in Savannah, GA and most recently “L’Arrêt by The Grey”, which opened in Paris, France in 2025. Her menu is known for its Foie gras with Southern twists, fresh seafood rooted in coastal Georgia traditions, seasonal vegetables treated with elevated technique, and much more…
Allan Houston
Former NBA Player “NY Knicks”
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Former NBA All-Star guard and longtime executive with the New York Knicks.
Houston starred at the University of Tennessee, where he became one of the school’s all-time leading scorers under his father, coach Wade Houston. He was selected 11th overall in the 1993 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons and later signed with the Knicks in 1996.
Known for one of the smoothest mid-range jump shots of his era, Houston earned two NBA All-Star selections (2000, 2001) and helped lead the Knicks to the 1999 NBA Finals. He also hit one of the most famous shots in franchise history—a series-clinching jumper against the Miami Heat in the 1999 playoffs.
Internationally, Houston was part of Team USA’s gold medal-winning squad at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
He is also the founder of FISLL Brand: a premium lifestyle and streetwear brand. The brand blends sports culture, faith, purpose, and clean fashion aesthetics.
Ashley Keiko
Singer/Songwriter & Saxophonist
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Ashley Keiko is a saxophonist, composer, singer/songwriter and entrepreneur who has studied classical piano, alto saxophone, and has taught music for many years. Ashley has performed at major venues such as the Apollo Theater in New York City and Wollongong University in Australia. She has also performed for Steve Harvey, on the nationally syndicated TV game show, Family Feud. Most recently, Ashley has toured cross-country with Grammy nominated singer/songwriter and musician, El DeBarge at the Hyatt Newport Beach Summer Concert Series, the ONE Music Festival and the R&B Groove Thang Concert Series at the Eaglebank Arena, Arie Crown Theater and the Stifel Theatre.
Since the opening of her music academy in 2018, she has been featured on Now This News, PIX 11 News and has been recognized by both of Ashley’s alma maters.
AU Hogan
Chief of Streets at Life Camp Inc.
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Queens City Council Appointee. Mr. Hogan was born and raised in Queens and has spent over thirty years serving and investing in his local community. Between getting his BA at York College and his masters at Queens College, Mr. Hogan began his career working for NYC Parks and Recreation before pivoting to education. For the last ten years, Mr. Hogan has worked at Life Camp, a non-profit dedicated to providing youth and families that have been impacted by violence tools they need to stay in school and out of the criminal justice system. Mr. Hogan served as Assistant Executive Director and Chief Team Leader before taking on his current role as Chief of Streets. Through his work at Life Camp, Mr. Hogan has created a burgeoning community police partnership with the goal of improving public safety.
Greg Nice
Hip Hop Artist
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
American hip-hop MC best known as one half of the duo Nice & Smooth, alongside Smooth B. Emerging from the late ’80s golden era of hip-hop, Greg Nice became famous for his energetic delivery, playful wordplay, and instantly recognizable voice.
Notable tracks include: “Funky For You”, “Sometimes I Rhyme Slow” and “Hip Hop Junkies”
Kurtis Blow
Hip Hop Artist
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
One of the original pioneers of hip-hop and the first rapper to sign with a major label. His impact on the early music industry helped turn rap from a local Bronx movement into a global phenomenon.
Some of his notable tracks include: “The Breaks”, “Christmas Rappin’”, “Basketball”, “AJ”, “If I Ruled The World” and much more…
He is also the co-founder behind the Hip Hop Alliance, along with Chuck D and KRS-One
A nonprofit focused on using hip-hop culture as a force for positive change
Leon
Actor, Singer & Producer
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Actor, singer (Leon & The Peoples), and producer, famously known for his roles in "Cool Runnings", "Five Heartbeats", "Above The Rim" , "Waiting To Exhale", "The Temptations”, “Little Richard” & much more… One of his most recent acting projects announced is his role in the legal thriller Wildcards, where he is both starring and producing alongside actors like Elise Neal and Aries Spears
Leon is also currently the lead singer of the reggae ensemble “Leon and The Peoples”
Melle Mel
Hip Hop Artist
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Born in the Bronx, NY, Melle Mel is one of the most influential early voices in hip-hop. He rose to fame as the lead MC of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, helping define the transition of rap from party rhymes to socially conscious storytelling.
In 2007, he became one of the first rappers inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
Some Notable hits include “The Message”, “White Lines”, “The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash on the Wheels of Steel.” and much more..
Tanto Metro
Dancehall/Reggae Music Artist
Event: 4th Annual Par4Peace Celebrity & Charity Golf Tournament presented by Life Camp Inc. I 4.20.2026
Location: North Shore Towers & Country Club, Queens, NYC
Jamaican dancehall and reggae artist best known as one half of the duo Tanto Metro and Devonte, alongside Devonte.
Their breakout track Everyone Falls in Love became a global dancehall anthem in the late ’90s, crossing into mainstream charts and still getting play today.
Other Notable Songs include: “Say Wooee”, “Give It to Her” and “Got News for You”
Bevy Smith
Radio personality, television personality & Businesswoman
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
She's known for her pop culture, fashion, and entertainment expertise, and has worked with outlets like Bravo, VH1, and E! Entertainment.
She is best known for co‑hosting Fashion Queens, her SiriusXM radio show “Bevelations,” and her memoir Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie.
Eric B
Hip Hop Music Artist, Producer, Business Mogul & Talk Show Host
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Rapper, record producer, and DJ from New York City. One half of the golden age hip hop duo Eric B. & Rakim, he formed the group in 1986 and served as its primary producer and DJ.
Their debut album, Paid in Full (1987) was named the greatest hip hop album of all time by MTV in 2006,and the duo were nominated in 2011 for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Dave Huie aka Two Dollar Dave
CEO & Founder of Vio/k Marketing Group, PowHERful. UNK NBA & Founding Partner of DADA & Erika Lynn Huie Downs Foundation
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Leon
Actor, Singer, Music & Film Producer
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Notable Films: The Five Heartbeats, Cool Runnings, Above The Rim, Waiting To Exhale, Little Richard and more..
Leon is also the lead singer of the reggae ensemble “Leon and The Peoples”
One of his most recent acting projects announced is his role in the legal thriller Wildcards, where he is both starring and producing alongside actors like Elise Neal and Aries Spears
Melle Mel
Hip Hop Artist & member of The Furious Five
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Pioneering hip-hop MC best known as the lead rapper of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. He is widely regarded as one of the first rappers to bring social commentary and lyrical storytelling into hip-hop.
In 2007, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five became the first hip-hop group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Notable Hits Include: The Message, White Lines, Beat Street Breakdown and much more,
Sean Ringgold
Actor
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Presently, Sean can be seen starring as Junior Duncan in the hit TV Series “The Family Business” airing on BET Plus: Previous roles include:
- Notorious: He portrayed Suge Knight (CEO of Death Row Records)
- Power and Power Book II: Ghost Known for portraying Councilman Rashad Tate’s brother, Kamaal Tate, a high-ranking NYPD officer.
- American Gangster – Appeared in the crime drama starring Denzel Washington.
- Law & Order: Special Victims Unit – Guest role.
- Luke Cage – Appeared in the Marvel series set in Harlem.
Fun Fact: Sean is married to Emmy Award Winning News Correspondent, Nicole Johnson of Pix11 NY
Sunny Hostin
Attorney, Author & Co-Host of “The View” on ABC
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Lawyer, journalist, and television personality. She is best known as a co-host on The View, where she provides commentary on current events, politics, and social issues. Prior to her work on television, she was a federal prosecutor and a legal analyst, appearing on networks such as CNN and MSNBC.
Sunny is also an author and has written books that often focus on personal stories, legal experiences, and social justice. She is recognized for her advocacy on issues related to civil rights, gender equality, and criminal justice reform.
Tarana Burke
Founder of The Me Too Movement
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Activist best known for founding the MeToo movement in 2006, which aims to support survivors of sexual violence and raise awareness about sexual harassment and assault. She started the movement to empower women, particularly women of color, by giving them a platform to share their experiences and build solidarity.
Burke has also worked extensively in youth development and social justice advocacy, focusing on marginalized communities. She has received widespread recognition for her activism, including awards and honors for her contributions to social change.
In 2018, Tarana was included in the TIME100 list of the world’s most influential people.
Whitney White
Actress, Director & Musician
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
Obie and Lilly Award-winning director, actor, and musician recognized for her work in theater, including the Tony-nominated Jaja’s African Hair Braiding (2024). She is widely respected in the contemporary American theatre scene for blending music, storytelling, and classical works like Shakespeae,
Recipient of the Susan Stroman Directing Award and participant in the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative.
Associate Artist at the Roundabout Theatre Company and Associate Director with the Shakespeare Theatre Company.
Acting Credits Include: Ocean’s 8, Louie and The Playboy Club
Directing & Creative Work includes: Macbeth in Stride, Our Dear Dead Drug Lord, The Amen Corner and Liberation
Yolonda Ross
Actress, Writer & Director
Event: National Cares Mentoring Movement “For The Love of Our Children Gala” & 80th Bday Celebration for Susan L. Taylor l 3.2.2026
Location: The Ziegfeld Ballroom, NYC
She began her career with roles in TV shows like New York Undercover & Third Watch. Her breakthrough came with the leading role in the HBO film Stranger Inside (2001), earning her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Debut Performance. She also received another Independent Spirit Award nomination for Go for Sisters (2013).
In 2015, she appeared in the biographical film Whitney, playing Robyn Crawford — Whitney Houston’s friend & assistant
She has had recurring TV roles on Treme, How to Get Away with Murder & is a series regular in the Showtime series The Chi, portraying Jada Washington
In April 2025 she appeared as a guest star on Will Trent.
Danessa Myricks
Celebrity MUA, Photographer, Educator & Founder/CEO of Danessa Myricks Beauty
Event: Sergio Hudson 10yr Anniversary Fashion Show I NYFW l 2.13.2026
Location: New York Public Library, NYC
Danessa Myricks Beauty, a global cosmetics brand celebrated for its innovative, high performance, and truly inclusive products.
She began her career without formal training — originally working in publishing and later teaching herself makeup artistry, photography, and product formulation while balancing life as a single mother. Her hands-on experimentation with pigments and creative techniques quickly gained attention, leading to professional artistry work, collaborations with major beauty companies, and global teaching opportunities.
In 2015 she launched Danessa Myricks Beauty, a brand built on the belief that makeup should be accessible, versatile, and empowering for all skin tones and creative styles. Her products — many multifunctional and artisanal in spirit — have garnered a devoted following among both professional makeup artists and everyday consumers and are carried in major retailers like Sephora.
Inga Beckham
Celebrity Stylist, Fashion Entrepreneur, Media Personality & Sergio Hudson’s (The Brand) Co-Founder
Event: Sergio Hudson 10yr Anniversary Fashion Show I NYFW l 2.13.2026
Location: New York Public Library, NYC
Belize born, she is best known for her work in luxury fashion styling and brand development. She has built a reputation for curating high-end looks for public figures, editorial shoots, and special events, blending classic glamour with modern trends.
Beyond styling, Beckham has expanded into business ventures tied to fashion, beauty, and image consulting, positioning herself as both a creative director and brand strategist. Her presence on social media has helped her reach a broader audience, where she shares styling tips, behind-the-scenes insights, and fashion inspiration.
Sergio Hudson
Luxury Fashion Designer
Event: Sergio Hudson 10yr Anniversary Fashion Show I NYFW l 2.13.2026
Location: New York Public Library, NYC
South Carolina born American luxury fashion designer known for his sharp tailoring, bold colors, and modern power dressing aesthetic. His designs celebrate confidence, structure, and femininity, often blending classic silhouettes with contemporary edge.
His breakout moment came In 2021 when he Designed Vice President Kamala Harris’ purple coat and dress and dressed Michelle Obama, who wore a plum Sergio Hudson suit that went viral from the Presidential Inauguration.
He frequently dresses celebrities including: Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Tracee Ellis Ross, Regina King, Keke Palmer and much more…
In 2013 He was the winner of the Bravo fashion competition series Styled to Rock, a show hosted by Rihanna that challenged designers to create looks for musical artists and celebrities.
Sir John
Celebrity MUA
Event: Sergio Hudson 10yr Anniversary Fashion Show I NYFW l 2.13.2026
Location: New York Public Library, NYC
He is best known for crafting radiant, skin-focused looks and working with high-profile clients, most notably Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Serena Williams. Rising from a self-taught background, he built a reputation for enhancing natural beauty and blending artistry with education. Beyond editorial and red-carpet work, Sir John is recognized for mentoring aspiring artists and promoting inclusive beauty standards through media appearances and brand collaborations.
In September 2025, he became the Creative Director for Medicube, a Korean skincare brand. Sir John believes that beauty starts with the skin and that the relationship with it should be sustainable.
Veronica Webb
Supermodel, Actress, Writer & TV Personality
Event: Sergio Hudson 10yr Anniversary Fashion Show I NYFW l 2.13.2026
Location: New York Public Library, NYC
American supermodel, actress, writer, and TV personality known for breaking barriers in the fashion and beauty industries. She emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as part of the first generation of supermodels to achieve worldwide recognition and was the first Black model to sign an exclusive major cosmetics contract with Revlon, a milestone that broadened representation in beauty advertising.
Webb’s modeling career includes covers for major magazines such as Vogue, Essence, and Elle and runway work with top designers like Versace, Chanel, Azzedine Alaïa, and Isaac Mizrahi. She has also appeared in films and TV shows, contributed as a lifestyle and cultural commentator, and written essays for publications including The New York Times and Interview.
Beyond fashion, Webb runs the pro-aging and beauty blog Webb On The Fly, serves on advisory boards supporting fashion education and diversity, and continues to influence style and wellness conversations. She is a wife and mother of four and an advocate for health, confidence, and self-expression at every age.