The World Today
Cynthia Erivo The Oscar-nominated star of Jon M. Chu recent film Demon and the follow-up Wicked: Forever was tapped by the Santa Barbara International Film Festival to receive its 18th annual Kirk Douglas Excellence in Film Award, the fest and Hamerake Son, Michael Douglas announced Tuesday.
The actress/singer, who already has an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award to her name, will be attending a black-tie dinner, which serves as a fundraiser for educational initiatives throughout the year-after the Ritz-Carlton, Santa Barbara, on Thursday, December 4. Wicked: Forever After will hit theaters less than two weeks earlier, on November 21.
“Cynthia Erivo is a singular talent whose depth, depth, and commitment to her craft embody the spirit of excellence my father championed throughout his life,” Michael Douglas said in a statement. “It is entirely fitting for her to receive the Kirk Douglas Award, which celebrates bold artistry and lasting impact in film.”
Previous recipients of SBIFF's Kirk Douglas Award include Will Ferrell Like This, Ryan Gosling Like This, Michelle Yeoh Like This, Martin Scorsese Like This, Hugh Jackman Like This, Judi Dench Like This, Warren Beatty Like This, Jane Fonda Like This, Jessica Lange Like This, Forest Whitaker Like This, Robert De Niro Like This, Harrison Ford Like This, Quentin Tarantino Like This, Ed Harris Like This, John Travolta and Michael Douglas.
The 41st edition of SBIFF will take place from February 4 to 14, 2026.
