Jharrel Jerome and Zhao Tao to Receive TIFF ‘24 Tribute Awards in Canada
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced that American actor Jharrel Jerome and Chinese actress Zhao Tao will be among the recipients of the prestigious TIFF Tribute Awards at this year’s festival. Jerome will receive the TIFF Tribute Performer Award, while Zhao Tao will be honoured with the TIFF Special Tribute Award. These accolades are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry and whose work has had a lasting impact.
The awards will be presented during the TIFF Tribute Awards gala, scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto. The gala, which is the largest fundraiser for TIFF, supports the Every Story Fund, an initiative aimed at promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the film industry.
Jharrel Jerome has become a recognized talent in Hollywood, gaining widespread acclaim for his roles in films like "Moonlight" and the Netflix series "When They See Us." His portrayal of wrestler Anthony Robles in the upcoming film "Unstoppable," which will premiere at TIFF 2024, has further cemented his reputation as a versatile and powerful actor. Reflecting on Jerome’s achievements, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey stated, "From Moonlight to Unstoppable, Jharrel Jerome’s depth, strength, and vulnerability on screen have made him one of his generation’s finest actors."
Zhao Tao, an internationally acclaimed actress, is known for her collaborations with director Jia Zhang-Ke, producing iconic films that explore the changing face of China. Her latest work, "Caught by the Tides," will have its North American premiere at TIFF 2024. Zhao’s contributions to cinema have earned her a place among the most respected actors of the 21st century. Bailey highlighted Zhao’s impact, noting, "Hers is a signature face of our 21st century, and her work in Caught by the Tides stands with her very best."
Jerome and Zhao join a distinguished list of past recipients of the TIFF Tribute Awards, including Colman Domingo, Vicky Krieps, Brendan Fraser, Jessica Chastain, and Kate Winslet. This year’s honourees also include Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, David Cronenberg, and Mike Leigh, with Sandra Oh serving as the inaugural Honorary Chair.
The 49th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, presented by Rogers, will take place from September 5 to 15, 2024, offering a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience.