Mixing The Past With The Present On CBS

Family matters. It has since the inception of television and the movies, and it was front and center at The 26^th Annual Family Film and TV Awards on CBS on Saturday. Honoring the best in family friendly entertainment in both fields, the winners ranged from Margot Robbie and Barbie, and Cedric the Entertainer and The Neighborhood to two beloved titles from yesteryear: sitcom Full House and the 1984 theatrical Ghostbusters.

Originally produced by Dick Clark and initially broadcast on CBS in 1996, The Family Film and TV Awards recognize the value and the significance of family entertainment. There were 11 categories, including Best Family Entertainment Series (Television), Ensemble Feature Film, Game Show, Family Entertainment Series (Television), and Iconic Family Film and Iconic Classic Series (Television).

“Recognizing and celebrating content that holds a universal appeal and is suitable for audiences of all ages has always been a core principle of our role as stewards of this esteemed award show,” said executive producer David McKenzie of Associated Television International in a statement prior to the telecast. “Emulating the celebrated legacy of Dick Clark presents a formidable challenge, and our commitment lies in restoring the event to its original essence.”

“The Family Film and TV Awards are a wonderful reminder to creators that there is an opportunity, and an audience, for timeless family-themed entertainment. Not all content needs to be over the top,” noted Mike Tankel, partner/optimist at the marketing and development firm To Be Continued. “While the definition of family has evolved, the core values shared by these shows have shaped us through their everlasting appeal. We recognize them and we continue to enjoy them, fondly remembering the first time they entered our hearts and minds.”

“Not only is this content family friendly, they are also advertiser friendly,” he added. “In this day and age, when even the streamers are looking to advertising, it is important to recognize the inviting and inclusive nature of family friendly entertainment.”

The Family Film and TV Awards

Hosted by The Talk’s Akbar Gbajabiamila and Amanda Kloots, a panel of industry experts, celebrities, and Popstar! magazine readers selected the winners.

“We are celebrating the art now of being able to watch shows and movies together as a family. But what I also really like about this award show is how it goes back and really pays homage and gives kudos to those shows that came before us,” said Akbar Gbajabiamila in an interview with Amy Johnson on KCAL News in Los Angeles. “To be able to be there in a room where you can see the celebration, from past to current, was really a fun event to experience. I really love the time span it covers.”

Celebrity appearances at The Family Film and Television Awards included Adam Sandler, Kel Mitchell, The Amazing Race host Phil Keoghan, Corey Feldman, The D’Amelio Family, Billy Gardell and Folákẹ́ Olowofoyeku of Bob Hearts Abishola, Max Greenfield of The Neighborhood, Tony Gonzalez, Dee Wallace (ET) and Family Matters star Reginald VelJohnson.

And the Winners Were…

Outstanding Actor in a Feature Film: Margot Robbie (Barbie)

Outstanding Actor in a TV Series: Cedric the Entertainer (The Neighborhood)

Best Iconic Family Film: Ghostbusters

Best Iconic Classic Series (Television): Full House

Best Family Film (Television): You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah

Best Family Entertainment Series (Television): The Amazing Race

Best Gameshow: The Price Is Right

Best Ensemble Series (Television):The Neighborhood

Best Ensemble Feature Film: Barbie

Best Animated Family Film: Leo

Best Family Feature Film: The Hill

Beau Bridges, meanwhile, was bestowed with the Icon Award by Ghostbusters star Ernie Hudson.

“I’ve been telling stories on film now for over 75 years and this blessing never would have happened had my father, Lloyd, and my mother, Dorothy, both actors, not given me the tools for my profession,” he said. “On my very first day as an actor, I remember my dad saying I would be joining a family so much bigger than my own, a family of filmmakers. And I cherish this family of mine that I am now a part of.”

Additionally, The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was awarded with the Humanitarian Award, presented by Montel Williams, Dean Cain, Laura McKenzie and Elizabeth Stanton, for its “ongoing efforts to assist families in challenging circumstances.”

“We have expanded. We are year-round now. And, of course, we couldn’t have done it without the generosity of the American people,” said Lieutenant General James B. Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation following a rousing standing ovation from the audience. “With your help we are probably going to hit 11 million children this year.”

“In the spirit of the Marine Corps Reserve and the Toys for Tots Foundation, this recognition strengthens our resolve to continue our mission,” added Major General Len “Loni” Anderson, Assistant Deputy Commandant, Plans, Policies, and Operations. “It’s not just toys; it’s about delivery joy, and fostering hope in the hearts of those families when they need it.”

Closing this inspiring one-hour celebration were hosts Akbar Gbajabiamila and Amanda Kloots. “In film, TV and life, family is everything,” they enthusiastically said, which was the notable theme at The 26^th Annual Family Film and TV Awards.