NAYA DESIR-JOHNSON RECEIVES THE RISING STAR AWARD AT THE ANNUAL CRITICS CHOICE CELEBRATION OF BLACK CINEMA & TELEVISION
Naya Desir-Johnson is capturing well-deserved attention for her powerful performance in Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming drama Sarah’s Oil — and now, her breakthrough moment is being recognized on one of Hollywood’s most inspiring stages.
The talented young actor will receive the Rising Star Award at the 8th Annual Critics Choice Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, an event dedicated to honoring trailblazing achievements and storytelling excellence across film and television.
In Sarah’s Oil, Naya takes on the titular role of Sarah Rector, the real-life Black girl who became one of the wealthiest children in early 20th-century America after discovering oil on her family’s land. The film, set to debut this November, explores Rector’s fight for her rights and her remarkable journey through history.
The Celebration of Black Cinema & Television returns on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, bringing together artists, creators, and visionaries to celebrate the richness of Black storytelling.
With her radiant talent and commanding presence, Naya Desir-Johnson continues to emerge as a voice and force for a new generation of storytellers.