In Los Angeles, notable personalities such as Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Travis Kelce, and Simone Biles have been honored at the prestigious Webby Awards, an event dedicated to celebrating exemplary internet content and creators.
The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences disclosed the winners on Tuesday, covering diverse categories. The 29th annual award ceremony is scheduled to be held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York on May 12.
Snoop Dogg claimed the title of Webby Entrepreneur of the Year for his impressive acumen in establishing a thriving business portfolio, which includes Death Row Records as well as ventures in alcohol, ice cream, and cannabis brands. Meanwhile, Walton Goggins earned the best actor recognition for his remarkable performances in streaming projects such as “The White Lotus,” “The Righteous Gemstones,” and “Fallout.”
Comedian and actor Ilana Glazer has been announced as the host for the ceremony, which will celebrate significant brands and platforms like Nike, Netflix, Letterboxd, and Apple. Additionally, Dr. Fei-Fei Li is set to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking contributions to artificial intelligence and her leadership in promoting human-centered AI.
Jesse Feister, executive director for the Webby Media Group, emphasized the impact of this year’s winners: “They exemplify the pinnacle of creativity and innovation, using the internet as a powerful tool to inspire change, ignite discussions, and foster connections unlike ever before. With the introduction of new categories, these creators are being acknowledged for paving the way for the digital world’s future.”
Since its inception in 1996 with a focus on websites, the awards have evolved to encompass a wide array of technologies, including apps, software, social media, and games.
A highlight of the evening was Google winning its inaugural Brand of the Year accolade, while NBCUniversal was lauded as the best Media Company.
Notable achievements were also made by Amelia Dimoldenberg, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Jools Lebron, Marcello Hernández, the MeidasTouch Podcast, and Norman Teague.
Other honorees involved Lady Gaga for her innovative website, Mariah Carey’s collaboration with KAY Jewelers in “It’s Time,” RuPaul’s dynamic creation “Drag Race: The Pit Stop,” Lamar’s striking “Not Like Us” music video, and Brian Cox’s enlightening series “Brian Cox Goes to College.”
Various mission-focused organizations such as The Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Immigration Law Center, and the Whitney Museum of American Art were recognized for their incredible contributions.
Furthermore, the event highlighted several new categories, showcasing the expanding creator economy and the rising influence of creators. Among the winners were internet personas such as Zach King, Caleb Simpson, and Jameis Winston.