In the frenzy of awards season ESSENCE pulled together some of the hottest stars for their 3rd Annual Black Women in Hollywood luncheon at the Beverly Hills Hotel yesterday. The event got emotional when Jada Pinkett Smith took the stage to present the “Power Award” to Queen Latifah, but ended up getting choked up over her father’s recent death from a heart attack.

“My father died last week, and I’m flying tomorrow to bury him,” Jada said though tears. “But I wanted to come because when those types of losses happen a lot of things get illuminated and your priorities fall in line.” Latifah came to console Jada and shed a few tears herself later telling reporters, “I was just so overwhelmed.”

In addition to Queen Latifah, several Hollywood legends (and legends to be) were honored at the luncheon including: Cicely Tyson (Legend Award); Gabourey Sidibe (Best Breakthrough Performance); Zoe Saldana (Star to Watch Award); and Mary J. Blige (Songstress of the Year).  A long list of other entertainers including Nia Long, Serena Williams, Taraji P Henson, Keri Hilson, Vivica a Fox and Anika Noni-Rose (just to name a few!) were also in the house.

“This is the first time I’ve been to this event, and I’ve never laughed so hard and cried so much at once,” actress Joy Bryant told WWD. It’s a beautiful thing when Black women convene! Check out the video below of BET’s coverage!

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TAGS: Anika Noni Rose, Gabourey Sidibe, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Zoe Saldana

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