Tony®, GRAMMY®, Emmy Award-winning and three-time Academy Award nominated actor, singer and producer Cynthia Erivo received Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s 18th annual Kirk Douglas Award For Excellence in Film. The prestigious award, which benefits the film festival’s year-round educational programs, was presented on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at a Black-Tie dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara.

“Cynthia Erivo is a singular talent whose depth, range, and fearless commitment to her craft embody the spirit of excellence my father championed throughout his life. It’s entirely fitting that she receives the Kirk Douglas Award, which celebrates bold artistry and enduring impact in film,” states Michael Douglas.

The Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film is SBIFF’s annual black tie fundraiser with all proceeds going to SBIFF’s Educational Programs. The event includes a cocktail reception during the red carpet arrivals followed by a dinner and tribute to the honoree. The tribute includes clip packages of the honorees work presented by several celebrity guests and concluding with the presentation of the award to the honoree.

Since 2006, the annual Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film has been awarded to a lifelong contributor to cinema through their work in front of the camera, behind, or both. Past honorees are Will Ferrell, Ryan Gosling, Michelle Yeoh, Martin Scorsese, Hugh Jackman, Dame Judi Dench, Warren Beatty, Jane Fonda, Jessica Lange, Forest Whitaker, Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas, Harrison Ford, Quentin Tarantino, Ed Harris, and John Travolta.