Newport Beach Film Festival Honors Taraji P. Henson, Sarah Finn at 27th Brunch
The Festival Honors brunch at Balboa Bay Resort also opened with Variety's 10 Actors to Watch panel, recognizing Rosalind Eleazar, Ruth Madeley and Inde Navarrette.
The Newport Beach Film Festival held its 27th annual Festival Honors brunch on October 18, 2026, at the Balboa Bay Resort, according to Deadline. Taraji P. Henson received the Artist of Distinction Award, and casting director Sarah Finn was given the Casting Visionary Award.
The brunch opened with Variety's 10 Actors to Watch panel. Rosalind Eleazar was recognized at the event for Misty Green.
Ruth Madeley stars in Being Heumann as disability rights activist Judy Heumann, and Inde Navarrette stars in Obsession.
Awards and the Actors to Watch panel
The Festival Honors event combined the presentation of the two awards with the annual showcase of emerging performers, which led the morning's program.
Quick answers
When was the Newport Beach Film Festival's 27th Festival Honors brunch?
It was held on October 18, 2026, at the Balboa Bay Resort.
Who received awards at the Festival Honors brunch?
Taraji P. Henson received the Artist of Distinction Award and Sarah Finn received the Casting Visionary Award.
What opened the Festival Honors brunch?
The event opened with Variety's 10 Actors to Watch panel.