Full Breakdown
51st Annual Gracie Awards Recognize Women in Media
3/24/2026, 5:21:02 PM
Overview of the Gracie Awards
The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) has announced the winners of the 51st Annual Gracie Awards, celebrating women's contributions across television, radio, podcasts, and digital media. The awards aim to honor women who tell impactful stories and reshape narratives in the media landscape. This year's winners include notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey, CNN anchor Abby Phillip, and actress Sarah Snook.
Key Winners and Categories
Among the honorees, KTUL main anchor Brenna Rose and photojournalist Dre Dabars received recognition for their hard news feature titled “Who’d you kill? What did you do?” This story focuses on Lisa Rae Wright, the first individual to qualify for sentencing relief under the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act, which allows courts to reconsider sentences in cases where domestic abuse was a significant factor. Wright was released after serving 34 years for the 1990 murder of her husband.
Other notable winners include Rhea Seehorn and Katherine LaNasa, who won awards for Best Leading and Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, respectively. The female-led cast of Showtime’s “Yellowjackets” received the Gracie Award for Best Ensemble Cast, while Quiana Burns from “The Tamron Hall Show” and Barbie Kligman from “Doc” were recognized as top showrunners.
Event Details
The Gracie Awards Gala will take place on May 19, 2026, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Local television, radio, and student award recipients will be honored at a luncheon on June 16, 2026, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
Official Statements & Responses
Becky Brooks, President of AWMF, expressed pride in this year's honorees, stating, “Women’s stories don’t just reflect the world, they shape it, shift it, and refuse to let it stay the same.” This sentiment underscores the importance of recognizing women's voices in media.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Gracie Awards celebrate women's achievements, some critics argue that the focus on gender may overshadow other important factors in media representation. However, the awards continue to emphasize the need for diverse voices and stories in the industry.
What's Next
As the Gracie Awards approach, anticipation builds for the recognition of women in media. The event not only highlights individual achievements but also aims to inspire future generations of female storytellers and media professionals. The complete list of winners and further details can be found on the AWMF website.
