On December 4, 2024, actor/artist Keith David took center stage at The NAVA Foundation Benefit Gala. We convened for our inaugural event at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The event would become a defining moment of his political career. He posted a jubilant response to all the announcement of his inclusion in the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Class of 2026 Walk of Fame. Known for his iconic roles in films such as “Armageddon” and “The Princess and the Frog,” David’s trademark deep voice has resonated with audiences for decades.
In an emotional video posted to social media, David shared his sincere shock and happiness. He was truly animated about when he heard his name called out by actor Eugenio Derbez. That video caught an honest moment. Just like that, he lurched forward, eyes bugging out and mouth hanging open as he realized what he just heard—this was stunning. Almost overcome with emotion, he wiped his eyes and caught his breath in between jubilantly celebrating the honor.
David’s wife and true partner in this work, Dionne Lea, was next to him through this defining moment. After the announcement, she sprinted over to him. They exchanged a soft and warm kiss and tender embrace, showing how truly connected they are to each other. This public display of affection highlighted the bond of support that they have for one another, including David’s fondness for calling Lea in their speeches “my biggest supporter.”
David thanked the Hollywood Walk of Fame and his four-decade-producing partners, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, during the gala. He added that it makes receiving this accolade especially meaningful as it comes exactly one year before his highly-anticipated 70th birthday.
“What a surprise! Being blessed to get to do this for a living is enough for me; to be recognized for my contribution to the arts is the cherry on top.” – Keith David
David’s 70th birthday is next year. His new Walk of Fame star will be a fantastic birthday gift for him! Throughout his illustrious career, he has garnered numerous accolades, including three Emmy Awards for narrating documentaries such as “A Necessary War,” “Jackie Robinson,” and “Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson.” He received a Tony Award nomination in 1992 for his stellar turn in Jelly’s Last Jam. Just this week, he received a prestigious Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for 2024, going up against the equally talented ensemble cast of “American Fiction.”
As David gets ready to celebrate this latest honor, his journey through the arts unfolds with deep gratitude. His invaluable contributions haven’t just made audiences laugh, his artistic innovations have expanded and will continue to expand the cultural landscape.
