The inaugural Las Culturistas Culture Awards took place on March 15, 2025, at The Orpheum Theater, celebrating influential figures in entertainment. Kenan Thompson and Allison Janney received prestigious accolades for their contributions to culture, with Thompson honored as the recipient of the Titan of Culture award and Janney recognized with the Lifetime of Culture award.
Thompson, a long-time star of Saturday Night Live, was presented his award by former co-star Aidy Bryant. As he accepted the honor, he humorously remarked, “Give the Black man the black one,” referencing the color of his trophy. A montage celebrating his career showcased highlights from his early days on Nickelodeon’s All That and Kenan & Kel, as well as his enduring legacy on NBC’s late-night sketch show.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Thompson expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you very much, wow! This is amazing! Yes, it is I, thespian Kenan Thompson.” He reflected on his extensive career, quipping, “I’m going to be in your hearts for even longer, I hope.” His excitement was palpable as he acknowledged the significance of the award, asserting it was a dream come true.
Janney’s moment came when Kristen Wiig took the stage to present her award. Wiig, appearing as herself rather than a character, elicited laughter from the audience. Janney’s acceptance speech had a light-hearted tone, as she joked about finally receiving an award “worthy of accepting while not wearing any pants.”
She continued to express her appreciation, saying, “Bowen and Matt, thank you so much for having me tonight. You don’t really sit around thinking about your impact on culture.” Janney highlighted the beauty of collaboration in acting, stating, “I’ve always said that acting is a team sport.” Her heartfelt remarks underscored her gratitude for the opportunities she has had throughout her career, which she described as incredibly lucky.
The event, hosted by Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, not only honored these two icons but also celebrated the broader cultural impact of artists in various mediums. With a vibrant atmosphere, the Las Culturistas Culture Awards set a new standard for recognizing contributions to the arts.
As the ceremony concluded, a memorable moment captured on the purple carpet featured Jamie Lee Curtis greeting Janney with a cheeky remark, adding to the evening’s playful spirit. The awards highlighted the importance of community and recognition within the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
