#United States #Atlanta #BronzeLens #Beyond the Gates #Tamara Tunie

BronzeLens 2026 Superstars Weekend Celebrates a Milestone in Television

From March 6 to 8, 2026, Atlanta will be the epicenter of celebration as the BronzeLens SuperStars Weekend takes place, recognizing the groundbreaking daytime soap opera "Beyond the Gates" produced by CBS Studios. This recognition is not merely a tribute; it highlights the significant impact that this show has had in the realm of television, particularly as it features a majority-Black ensemble cast, a first for daytime programming.

Honoring Significant Achievements

Kathleen Bertrand, the Executive Producer of BronzeLens, shared the motivation behind spotlighting "Beyond the Gates" during this year’s festivities. "This year, we want to give special attention to 'Beyond the Gates' because of its historic imprint on our community and beyond," she remarked. This acknowledgment aligns well with the broader theme of the BronzeLens Film Festival, which celebrates diversity, creativity, and excellence in the film and television industry.

The weekend is lined with exciting events including the 17th annual BronzeLens Women SuperStars Honors awards program scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026. At this glamor-filled ceremony, stage and film actress Tamara Tunie will be awarded the title of the 2026 Legendary SuperStar. Tunie has played a vital role in "Beyond the Gates" as Anita Dupree, the matriarch of an affluent Black family, thus making a historic mark on daytime soap operas.

Recognizing Talent Behind the Camera

The weekend will also honor Jasmine Burke, recognized as the 2026 Visionary SuperStar for her compelling role as June—a homeless woman longing to reclaim her life. Her performance resonates with social consciousness and it extends beyond acting, as Burke is dedicated to enhancing mental health resources through her foundation.

Additionally, the Behind the Lens SuperStar award will be given to Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield, the acclaimed three-time Emmy Award-winning costume designer. Featherstone-Winfield sees her work on "Beyond the Gates" as a transformative opportunity, enabling her to build a world that authentically portrays the richness of Black experiences, proving the importance of representation in the arts.

Conversations with Icons

On Sunday, March 8, the weekend will culminate with the presentation of the Bronze Excellence in Iconic Performance and Writing award to Clifton Davis, who portrays family patriarch Vernon Dupree. He will engage in a candid dialogue with fellow male actors from the series, discussing their paths in the entertainment industry and the inspiration that fuels their continued success.

The event’s kickoff, Reel Women: Her Vision, Her Voice, will take place on the first day, March 6, featuring panel discussions with prominent figures from the industry, including Actress/Producer Charity Jordan and Makeup Artist Patrice Coleman. This gathering aims to foster connections among aspiring talents and seasoned professionals, promoting an inclusive environment.

A Call for Diversity

BronzeLens 2026 Superstars Weekend is not just an awards ceremony; it signifies a collective call for increased diversity and representation in the entertainment sector. By honoring "Beyond the Gates," the festival emphasizes the importance of inclusive narratives that elevate underrepresented voices.

The event offers a unique platform for discussions on the necessity of diverse storytelling in media. As it aims to enlighten and entertain, it also seeks to inspire future generations of filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts to strive for excellence while celebrating their unique identities.

For more details about the BronzeLens Film Festival and its events, visit the official website. Prepare to be inspired during this celebration of creativity and resilience in the face of challenges.