The 16th Annual Unforgettable Gala, the longest-running celebration of Asian American trailblazers in the entertainment industry, has selected Leonardo Nam, Ross Butler, Awkwafina, Justin Chon, Daniel Dae Kim, Grace Park and Dr. Mike Hong as its honorees, Variety has learned exclusively.
Nam, who currently stars in HBO’s sci-fi western drama “Westworld” is being named “Actor of the Year,” while Butler will be honored with the male breakout award for his work on Netflix’s “13 Reasons Why” and the CW’s “Riverdale” and rapper and comedian Awkwafina will receive the female breakout award.
Chon, who is perhaps best known for his role in “Gook” but has also appeared this year in “Dr. Ken” and can be seen next year in “Deception,” is being honored with the Vanguard Award. Former “Hawaii Five-0” stars Kim and Park will be recognized for exemplifying the “devotion and the spirit of ‘The Ultimate Drive’ in their careers” with presenting sponsor BMW’s Ultimate Drive award.
Hong of M&L Hong Foundation, Dura Coat Products Inc. will receive the philanthropy award for his charitable contributions to the company. And more honorees are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
“We are so honored for the recipients to join us this year,” James Ryu, the publisher of the gala’s host, Kore Asian Media, said. “Through their work, they’ve helped shape the perspectives of generations through diverse storytelling. The unique backgrounds of our honorees mirror the strength and growth of the Asian American community as we look toward the future.”
Taking place on Dec. 9 in Los Angeles, Calif., the 16th Annual Unforgettable Gala will see entertainment from Kinjaz and East West Players. In addition to presenting sponsor BMW and host Kore Asian Media, the gala is also supported by gold sponsors Private Internet Access and Pechanga Resort & Casino. “The Real’s” Jeannie Mai will host the event.
For more information on the event, visit Unforgettablegala.com
