Kevin Hines to Receive AFA Impact Award, Presented by Zak Williams

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The following press release was issued by the American Film Association and is published as received.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kevin Hines to Receive AFA Impact Award, Presented by Zak Williams

The black-tie evening is Nov. 8 at the Beverly Hilton.

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Oct. 29, 2026 — Mental health advocate and documentary filmmaker Kevin Hines will receive the Impact Award, presented by Zak Williams, at the American Film Association’s Inaugural AFA Gala on Sunday, Nov. 8, at the Beverly Hilton.

After surviving a suicide attempt from the Golden Gate Bridge in 2000, Hines has spoken worldwide on mental health and suicide prevention. He wrote the memoir “Cracked, Not Broken” and directed “Death Bridge,” a documentary about bringing suicide prevention measures to the bridge. Its executive producers include Logan Paul, Zak Williams, Tay and Taylor Lautner, and Dan Martell.

“The gala brings producers, financiers and investors together around a shared commitment to a more sustainable film industry,” said Austin Spicer, president of the American Film Association. “Kevin’s work reminds us why that matters: films can bring attention to urgent issues and give people a reason to hope.”

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The evening includes a reception, dinner and awards recognizing people across the film business. The AFA Screenplay Award winner, chosen from the competition’s monthly selections, will accept the award on stage.

“We’re proud that AFA is changing how producers and filmmakers connect creative ambitions with business decisions,” said Hailey Spicer, chief operating officer of the American Film Association. “A stronger business foundation gives creatives the support to stay creative.”

AFA President Austin Spicer, Chief Operating Officer Hailey Spicer and Chief Financial Officer Shane Seo, the founders of Dreamland Studios, will host the gala.

AFA is a membership community headquartered in Atlanta with chapters in Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando and Dallas, reaching an average of 10,000 filmmakers a month through its programs. The gala follows the AFA Film Conference at the same venue; admission is separate.

The gala is invitation-only. To request an invitation, visit americanfilmassociation.com/gala.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

About the American Film Association

The American Film Association (AFA) is a membership community for filmmakers, producers, writers and actors, headquartered in Atlanta with chapters in Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando and Dallas. AFA teaches the business of film, from packaging and financing to production and distribution, and connects producers, filmmakers, financiers, distributors and industry leaders through its programs, events and the annual AFA Gala. It brings an average of 10,000 filmmakers a month into its programs and events. americanfilmassociation.com

Media Contact

Mak R., American Film Association
404-824-0767 | info@americanfilmassociation.com

Photo: American Film Association.

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