Chase Infiniti, the 25-year-old breakout star of One Battle After Another, was celebrated at the 19th annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards luncheon just days before the 2026 Oscars — a milestone moment that underscores her fast-rising profile in Hollywood.

What happened

At the Essence luncheon in mid-March, Infiniti received the Essence Starlet honor, presented by Teyana Taylor. On the blue carpet she told Vanity Fair, “I feel so, so blessed, honestly, because I love what I do. I love this industry. I love my community.” The event — held a few days before the Academy Awards — gathered many of the season’s most talked-about talent.

Who was there and why it matters

The ceremony doubled as a showcase for the awards-season momentum surrounding several projects. Kerry Washington, who has been playfully billed as Infiniti’s on-screen “Scandal” mom, accepted the Essence Icon award and publicly applauded Infiniti, saying, in part, “And then Chase, who is apparently my pretend daughter, I love you so much.” Co-star Tyriq Withers joined the praise on the carpet, noting Infiniti’s breakout work opposite high-profile co-stars.

Inside the luncheon

  • Teyana Taylor presented Infiniti with the Starlet honor and urged her to “navigate this industry with grace.”
  • Honorees included LaTanya Richardson Jackson, producer Zinzi Coogler and multiple women from the film Sinners; Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan participated in tributes.
  • Zendaya made a surprise appearance in a vintage Cachè dress; the event turned into a lively, celebratory atmosphere with performances and on-table dancing.

Carpet conversations and the Scandal question

On the blue carpet, Infiniti and Tyriq Withers spoke to outlets including Access Hollywood, praising Kerry Washington for mentorship and industry advice as they launch their careers. Reporters also asked whether they would join a Scandal reboot — a question that highlights how closely audiences now link them to that show’s legacy.

Fan and industry reaction

The luncheon generated immediate industry buzz. Colleagues and press noted Infiniti’s emotional acceptance and the community support that followed; moments like a fan embrace between Zendaya and Love Island alum Olandria Carthen circulated in photos and interviews. The mix of veteran stars and rising talent gave the event a passing-of-the-torch feel.

What’s next

Infiniti is set to attend her first Oscars with One Battle After Another castmates, and Vanity Fair will stream its Oscar Party live on YouTube on Sunday, March 15, 2026 (10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT). Oscar-week premieres and parties — from Dior’s Club J’adore to film premieres featuring Tyriq Withers and others — will continue to keep industry attention on this new wave of talent.

For Infiniti, the Essence honor is more than a trophy: it’s a sign of industry backing and a public reminder that Black women’s mentorship networks remain central to Hollywood’s next chapter.