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The prestigious Yale in Hollywood festival is set to take place from December 4 to 6, celebrating its sixth consecutive year in a virtual format. This year’s event will honor two distinguished talents: Jennifer Beals, who will receive the Career Achievement Award, and Roshan Sethi, who is being recognized with the Queer Voice Award. The awards ceremony is scheduled for December 6 and will be streamed live, allowing audiences worldwide to partake in the celebrations.
Both honorees have made significant contributions to their respective fields, with Beals widely recognized for her impactful role in television and Sethi gaining acclaim as a multi-talented writer and director. The festival aims to spotlight the achievements of those affiliated with Yale University, whether as students, alumni, or staff members.
Celebrating Jennifer Beals’ illustrious career
Jennifer Beals’ remarkable career spans several decades, with her most notable role being that of Bette Porter in the acclaimed series The L Word: Generation Q. Her portrayal earned her numerous accolades, including the GLAAD Golden Gate Award and nominations for the NAACP Image Award and the Satellite Award. Beyond acting, Beals has made waves as an executive producer, contributing to the revival of her original series and upcoming projects such as The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
Advocacy and impact
In addition to her artistic accomplishments, Beals has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She was honored with the Human Rights Campaign’s Ally for Equality Award, recognizing her dedication to promoting equality and understanding. In 2025, she launched Run-A-Muck, a cross-platform media brand focusing on queer storytelling, further solidifying her commitment to representation in the entertainment industry.
Roshan Sethi’s dual career
Roshan Sethi is a unique figure in the film industry, balancing his roles as a director, writer, and practicing oncologist. He co-created the popular medical drama The Resident, showcasing his ability to merge his expertise in medicine with storytelling. Sethi’s film credits include the critically acclaimed Independent Spirit Award-winning film 7 Days, as well as World’s Best and A Nice Indian Boy. His work often reflects a genuine understanding of the human experience, bridging the gap between medical realities and cinematic narratives.
Recognition and awards
During the festival, Sethi will be celebrated not just for his artistic talents but also for his role in advocating for diverse voices in film. His dedication to portraying authentic narratives resonates with audiences and critics alike, making him a fitting recipient of the Queer Voice Award. This recognition aligns with the festival’s mission to elevate the voices of creators representing various backgrounds and experiences.
Festival highlights and opportunities
The upcoming Yale in Hollywood festival will feature a range of short films and live events, showcasing the talent of Yale-affiliated creators. All programs will be available for free streaming on yihfest.com, allowing global audiences to engage with the festival’s offerings. This year, the festival will also award two $500 prizes to competition winners, sponsored by VEEEU, along with three one-year subscriptions to Story-boards.ai, a Swiss AI-driven storyboard software.
With previous honorees including notable figures like Oscar nominee Lee Isaac Chung and acclaimed creators such as Justin Noble and C.S. Lee, the festival continues to build a legacy of celebrating excellence in film and television.
As the festival approaches, excitement is building for the recognition of Jennifer Beals and Roshan Sethi, whose contributions to film and advocacy inspire countless individuals. The Yale in Hollywood festival serves not only as a platform for showcasing talent but also as a celebration of diversity and representation in the arts.