NHMC Impact Awards 2026 honors The Studio, Belissa Escobedo and more

The National Hispanic Media Coalition revealed a slate of honorees for the NHMC Impact Awards 2026, spotlighting creatives and performers driving change in entertainment. The annual gala is set for Friday, April 24, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, bringing together industry figures committed to advancing inclusion.

Hosted by comedians Chris Estrada and Frankie Quinones, the event will celebrate individuals whose work continues to elevate representation and amplify underrepresented voices across film and television.

The Studio and storytellers recognized for cultural impact

Apple TV’s The Studio will receive the Beyond the Lens Impact Award after gaining traction for its sharp, insider-style satire of Hollywood. The project has resonated with audiences while highlighting Latino voices in key creative roles.

Among those recognized for their contributions to the series are Frida Perez, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Lorena Perez Batista, and Antonio Sanchez. Their collective work helped shape a show that blends industry commentary with meaningful representation.

Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters writers Danya Jimenez and Hannah McMechan will take home the Storytelling Impact Award. Their collaboration stands out for weaving themes of identity and belonging into a genre-driven narrative that reflects modern audiences.

Belissa Escobedo and Beth de Araújo lead individual honors

Belissa Escobedo is set to receive the Outstanding Actress Performance in a Series Impact Award for her role in NBC’s Happy’s Place. Her performance marks a significant step forward for Latina representation in lead roles on broadcast television.

Escobedo’s growing body of work, which includes Blue Beetle and Hocus Pocus 2, continues to strengthen her presence as a rising figure in Hollywood. Her recognition underscores the importance of visibility and opportunity for Latina talent.

Beth de Araújo will be honored with the Visionary Impact Award for her film JOSEPHINE. The project earned both the Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival and secured a Golden Bear nomination at the Berlin International Film Festival.

NHMC President and CEO Brenda Victoria Castillo emphasized the significance of this year’s honorees, noting their role in shaping a more inclusive entertainment landscape. The organization continues to advocate for representation while celebrating achievements that reflect cultural diversity.

More honorees and presenters are expected to be announced as the NHMC Impact Awards 2026 approaches, with the event positioned as a major celebration of creativity and progress in the industry.