Russell Simmons to receive Producers Guild's Visionary Award

Russell Simmons to receive Producers Guild’s Visionary Award

By Susan King

Nov. 29, 2012 12 AM PT

Music producer and hip-hop pioneer Russell Simmons will receive the Producers Guild 2013 Visionary Award at the 24th annual Producers Guild Awards ceremony Jan. 26 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

The Visionary Award recognizes television, film or new media producers for “their uniquely positive or uplifting contributions to our culture through inspired storytelling or performance,” according to the guild.

Simmons is being honored for his work in TV (“Def Comedy Jam”) and film but also for his humanitarian efforts and role as a United Nations goodwill ambassador.

“Throughout his career, Russell has accomplished the kinds of things that only a true visionary can,” said 2013 PGA Awards chairman Michael DeLuca in a statement Thursday morning.

“He has seamlessly bridged the worlds of hip-hop and filmed entertainment through poetry, comedy and music, offering viewers and music fans alike not just a reflection of themselves, but a hopeful glimpse of a world filled with art, joy and compassion.”

Simmons expressed his gratitude in a statement: “I’m sincerely humbled that the PGA chose me to receive a Visionary Award. Just to be in the room with all those in the industry is a blessing.”

Previous Visionary honorees include Simon Fuller, Jeff Skoll and Joel Gallen.

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