The 2022 People’s Choice Awards was definitely one to remember. Hosted by Kenan Thompson for the second year in a row, this year’s ceremony was held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, and featured the best in music, film, television, and podcasts.
“I’m beyond excited to host the People’s Choice Awards again this year and celebrate the incredible talent and fans that this show unites,” said Thompson in a statement to NBC. “I’m so grateful to be nominated – shoutout to the fans and congrats to all the nominees. Get ready for round two!!”
In what was a star-studded event, many of the Black celebrities in attendance were Laverne Cox, Karamo Brown, Jessica Betts and Niecy Nash, Kel Mitchell, and more. Pose star Billy Porter presented Shania Twain with the “Music Icon” Award, 3-time NBA Champion Dwyane Wade announced the “Male Movie Star of 2022,” and comedian Lil Rel Howery gave out the evening’s second big award, the People’s Icon Award to Ryan Reynolds.
At about 10:30 pm, Shari Johnson-Jefferson – Lizzo’s mother – presented the 3-time Grammy winner with the most notable honor of the night, the People’s Champion. “She’s a champion of others, she builds you up and is always in your corner,” Johnson-Jefferson began. “She has shown us all that we don’t have to conform to anyone’s standards in order to be happy, to be creative, and to feel worthy. I know that Lizzo has literally saved lives. No one is more deserving of this honor – and I’m so proud of her.”
After a brief montage of the Michigan-born entertainer’s amazing year, Lizzo then walked out to the stage and delivered a powerful speech. “I’m here tonight because, to be an icon isn’t about how long you’ve had your platform, being an icon is what you do with that platform,” she said. “And ever since the beginning of my career, I’ve used my platform to amplify marginalized voices, so tonight I am sharing this honor. Make some love for the people, ya’ll.” Lizzo then highlighted activists across several practices, including abortion rights, domestic violence, the situation in Flint, and more. The final activist that Lizzo spoke about was Tamika Palmer, the parent of Breonna Taylor.
The night undoubtedly belonged to the Special singer, because she also brought home the PCA’s final award, the “Song of the Year” for her hit single, “About Damn Time.”
Take a look at some of the highlights of the 2022 People’s Choice Awards.
01
Lizzo is presented with “People’s Champion” Award
Lizzo was presented with the evening’s most coveted award, the “People’s Champion,” and was introduced by her mother Shari Johnson-Jefferson.
02
Billy Porter presents Music Icon Award
Donned in a black, ruffled ensemble, the Pose star presented Shania Twain with the “Music Icon” Award for her contributions to the entertainment industry.
03
Dwyane Wade Arrives In Louis Vuitton
3-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade arrived at the 2022 People’s Choice Awards in a stylish purple Louis Vuitton jacket. He also presented the “Male Movie Star” award later on in the evening.
04
Lizzo highlights several activists during her acceptance speech
Lizzo Lizzo delivered a powerful speech, saying. “I’m here tonight because, to be an icon isn’t about how long you’ve had your platform, being an icon is what you do with that platform,” she said. “And ever since the beginning of my career, I’ve used my platform to amplify marginalized voices, so tonight I am sharing this honor.” She highlighted activists across several practices, which included Jayla Rose Sullivan, Kara Roselle Smith, Shirley Raines, Odilia Romero, Chandi Moore, Amelia Bonow, and more.
05
Lizzo wins the “Song of the Year” Award
Honoree Lizzo, recipient of The Song of 2022 award for ‘About Damn Time’ speaks on stage during the 2022 People’s Choice Awards held at the Barker Hangar.
