Event Recap: Humor Mill Comedy Awards

Humor Mill Comedy Awards host Chris Spencer share a spotlight with Tina Knowles-Lawson Richard Lawson and Presenter Alex Thomas

The inaugural Humor Mill Comedy Awards premiered their electrifying, unforgettable celebration of trailblazing comedic legends, rising stars, and social influencers Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the Director’s Guild of America. With Instagram-worthy show-stopping moments, the night honored the diverse and rich history of urban comedy with a curated group of presenters, honorees, and special tributes.

Humor Mill Comedy Awards Executive Producers Founder Frank Holder and Partner Daniel Paul

Before the Humor Mill Comedy Awards began, the humor was already in full swing with social media correspondent Juhan Jones’ quick-witted, humorous behind-the-scenes recaps from the red carpet. Opened with an illuminating message from the show’s visionary and Executive Producer, Frank Holder, the stage was set for a night of joy and celebration. Detroit Comedian Tony T. Roberts hit center stage with a hilarious opening song that sent seismic waves of laughter rippling through the crowd. Roberts passed the torch to Host and Executive Producer Chris Spencer, who kept the energy high throughout the evening. Presenters for the night included Stan Lathan, Tiffany Haddish, Brian J. White, Alex Thomas, Jasmine Burke, Dorien Wilson and many more who paid tribute to the pioneers of urban comedy. Veteran television writer and producer Ralph Farquhar, along with the legendary comedian and actor George Wallace were the night’s honorees.

“I’m so glad there’s a show that’s honoring all these comedians that have gone unnoticed all these years,” says Ralph Farquhar. “Black comedians are the backbone of the industry and that’s the truth. I’m glad I was thought of to receive the first Icon Award.”

“It’s a true blessing and an absolute honor to be recognized by my community and receive this award from my people,” says George Wallace.

The night continued to commemorate the achievements of comedy greats with special history moments honoring the contributions of trailblazers who paved the way for the next generation of comedic talent including Dewey “Pigmeat” Markham, Moms Mabley, Stepin Fetchit, Freddie Prinze and Pat Morita. With its fusion of highlighting the brightest stars of yesterday, today and the future, the Humor Mill Comedy Awards celebrated winners across several categories including “Best Sitcom,” “Funniest Film of the Year” and more.

View this year’s Humor Mill Comedy Awards winners below:

●      BEST SITCOM – REAL HUSBANDS OF HOLLYWOOD

●      BEST COMEDIC ACTRESS IN TV/FILM – KIM FIELDS

●      BEST COMEDIC ACTOR IN TV/FILM – DC YOUNG FLY

●      FUNNIEST FILM OF THE YEAR – DAY SHIFT

●      SKETCH OF THE YEAR – JUHAHN JONES

●      BEST COMEDIC ACTRESS – DAPHNIQUE SPRINGS

●      COMEDIAN OF THE YEAR – EARTHQUAKE

●      COMEDY SPECIAL OF THE YEAR – DAVID ARNOLD

●      BEST COMEDIC BRAND ADVERTISING – OLD SPICE – DEON COLE, GABRIELLE DENNIS

Icon Award Honoree Ralph Farquhar, Presenters, Tiffany Haddish, Stan Lathan
and Lifetime Achievement Honoree
George Wallace

The Humor Mill Comedy Awards paid a heartwarming special tribute to comics we lost in 2022. “Comedy has always held a special place in my heart, and to me, it’s a medium that is designed to celebrate those we’ve lost who have dedicated their lives to bringing laughter and joy to people all around the world while spotlighting the talented comedians who are still here,” says founder and executive producer of the show Frank Holder.

Holder closed the night with a poignant and uplifting message, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to bring together the best and brightest of urban comedy. For more information on Humor Mill and air date, visit www.humormilltv.com or connect on social media @humor_mill on Instagram, @thehumormill on Twitter, and @HumorMill on Facebook.