MMPA DIVERSITY AWARDS 2009 WRAP UP: Star studded show presented in Bel Air, CA.

     She was effusive in thanks for the recognition of her first turn as leading lady, saying she goes to see diverse "movies that speak to me", as is her hope for all audiences. 

     Other Awardees Included HBO winning for Diverse Network Programming accepted by President of HBO Films, Len Amato who spoke on the diversity in the HBO lineup. The cast of "Glee" won for Favorite New Television Ensemble Cast and all appeared on stage to celebrate the award.      

     "NCIS Los Angeles" was recognized for Favorite New Television Drama, and "Heroes" Masi Oka was on hand to receive the Best Actor in a Drama Award.    

     Evening stand-outs included presenter Tangi Miller, in a stunning gown - surely the evenings winner for best dressed, and Female Nova Award winner Hope Olaide Wilson, the young actress from "I can Do Bad All By Myself" with an emotional acceptance speech.  The ingenue through tears and laughter asked her mom to stand and be recognized, and said she was grateful for all the opportunities presented to her.

     The diverse audience included first time Awards attendee John Marshall Jones, of Nickelodeon's "The Troop" who hopes to return next year after the theatrical release of his three time Audelco award winning production of "The Guest At Central Park West," a stage to film production a-la the Tyler Perry Madea series. 

     The Awards, Dinner and Celebrity Reception was presented this year at the Luxe Hotel in Bel Air.  A full list of Awardees is available at thediversityawards.org.