Television Academy Honors to Include ‘Genius: MLK/X,’ ‘We Will Dance Again,’ ‘Will & Harper’

by

Among the shows being honored at the Television Academy’s 18th Television Academy Honors are Nat Geo’s “Genius: MLK/X,” Paramount+’s “We Will Dance Again,” and Netflix’s “Will & Harper.” This event is designed to recognize and applaud various programs from multiple platforms and genres that bring attention to the intricate societal issues we face.

This year’s award recipients (4 unscripted and 2 scripted shows) encompass “Daughters” on Netflix, “Independent Lens: Greener Pastures” on PBS, and “Out of My Mind” on Disney+.

Or more informally, we’re honoring six programs this year – four without a pre-written script (like “Daughters” on Netflix) and two with one (such as “Independent Lens: Greener Pastures” on PBS and “Out of My Mind” on Disney+).

As reported by the organization, the honorees addressed a variety of topics such as transgender identity, building friendships and alliances, the impact of the prison system on Black communities, mental health challenges in farming societies, social justice and racism, the rights of disabled individuals and students with special needs under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.

Or:

The honorees, as mentioned by the organization, delved into subjects like transgender identity, fostering friendships and solidarity, examining the influence of the prison system on Black communities, mental health struggles in farming communities, social justice and racism, advocating for disabled individuals and students with special needs under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and exploring the Israel-Palestine dispute.

This year’s TV Academy Honors event, scheduled for May 28th at the SLS Hotel in Los Angeles, will be hosted by multi-talented personality Michelle Visage, who is known for her work as a singer, radio host, and judge on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Currently, television plays a significant role as a potent medium for discussing crucial global issues and sharing information,” said Cris Abrego, chair of Television Academy, in a statement. “We are recognizing this year’s winners for their unwavering devotion and efforts in producing compelling narratives that not only teach but also inspire viewers worldwide.

For the very first time, the candidate process was broadened to include every voting member of the Academy, resulting in 50 finalists from a pool of 142 submissions as stated by Scott Freeman, governor of the TV Academy’s reality programming peer group. The selection committee then chose the ultimate honorees following this round.

As a passionate cinephile, I had the privilege to work alongside Freeman Banks, a distinguished figure in the realm of sound editing, who was the governor of the Sound Editors Peer Group. Together with him, we served as co-chairs of the TV Academy Honors selection committee, diligently overseeing an extended call for honorees to ensure a diverse and inclusive representation of exceptional television productions.

According to Banks, “These chosen programs delve into crucial matters,” he stated. “The narratives presented, the perspectives shared, and the lives depicted in these shows serve as a powerful demonstration of television’s capacity to both inform and amuse – stimulating dialogue; fostering comprehension, empathy, and, when appropriate, prompting action.”

or

Banks commented that “These selected programs touch upon significant topics,” he said. “The tales told, the voices heard, and the lives shown in these productions are a strong example of television’s ability to teach while being entertaining – sparking discussions; promoting understanding, empathy, and when necessary, inciting action.”

or

Banks pointed out that “These handpicked programs deal with important themes,” he noted. “The narratives conveyed, the viewpoints expressed, and the lives portrayed in these broadcasts demonstrate the potential of television to educate while engaging – encouraging dialogue; cultivating insight, empathy, and, when required, instigating action.

Here’s how this year’s honorees were described by the org:

As a movie enthusiast, I’d express it like this:

“I recently watched ‘Daughters’, a deeply moving documentary on Netflix. This film captures the heartwarming journey of four young girls as they prepare for a special father-daughter dance with their incarcerated fathers, through a unique fatherhood program in a Washington, D.C., jail. The girls openly discuss their dreams, aspirations, and the emotional strain of their fathers’ absence. Their maturity and resilience are truly inspiring, showcasing an understanding and strength that surpasses their years.” (A Netflix production in collaboration with Object & Animal and Epoch Films, Park Pictures and XTR, OPC and World of HA, Simpson Street, and Two One Five)

This captivating docudrama series delves into the pivotal periods and intertwining tales of two influential figures in the Civil Rights Movement: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. The show highlights their groundbreaking achievements, with a special emphasis on their remarkable spouses, Coretta Scott King and Betty Shabazz.” (National Geographic, 20th Television, Imagine Television and Undisputed Cinema)

Independent Lens: Fertile Ground”

Synopsis: A mental health predicament has surfaced among numerous American farmers. The dual factors of climate change and the pandemic have led to escalating economic uncertainties and feelings of isolation within this community. This documentary, produced by Intersection Pictures and ITVS, chronicles the resilience and struggle of four farm families in the Midwest over a span of years, providing an intimate look at the challenges faced by those working in the farming industry heartland.

Out of My Mind” (on Disney+)

This heartwarming, growth-oriented drama follows the life of Melody Brooks, a clever sixth grader with cerebral palsy who uses a wheelchair. Despite being overlooked by her school peers due to her unique circumstances, she is discovered for her hidden talents by an insightful teacher. This newfound opportunity propels Melody into mainstream education and ultimately helps her find her voice. (Produced by Big Beach, Participant, EveryWhere Studios LLC, and Disney Branded Television)

Dancing Together Again: Survivor Stories from the Nova Music Festival Attack”

Description: This compelling documentary, produced by See It Now Studios in collaboration with HOT 8 and BBC Storyville, recounts the harrowing events of the October 7 Hamas terror attack at the Nova Music Festival in Israel. The narrative is told through the experiences of over two dozen survivors who lived the unimaginable stories of courage, humanity, and heroism. As the festival transitioned from a celebration of music to a living nightmare, these festivalgoers were forced to make life-or-death decisions. Their accounts offer a gripping portrayal of resilience in the face of adversity.

“On Netflix, the documentary titled ‘Will & Harper’ follows the journey of Will Ferrell as he learns that his longtime friend is transitioning. To cope with this change in their relationship, they embark on a road trip across the country. This film offers a personal glimpse into friendship, transformation, and the American landscape.” (A Netflix Documentary / a Wayfarer Studios Film / a Delirio Films Production / a Gloria Sanchez Production)

Read More

2025-05-01 16:23