Gospel icon Kirk Franklin was honored with the Inspiration Award at the sixth annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards on Friday, June 5, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. The ceremony was hosted by Tiffany Haddish, with Babyface returning as the evening’s musical director.

The Inspiration Award recognizes someone who has overcome hardship and risen above adversity. Franklin, a twenty-time Grammy winner, has spoken openly throughout his career about being abandoned as a child and raised by an older relative, and about building a life in gospel music out of those beginnings. During his time on stage he gave an impromptu performance that became one of the night’s most talked-about moments.

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He was recognized alongside a notable class of honorees. Patti LaBelle received the inaugural Legacy Award created in her honor. Tyler Perry was given the Innovator Award, Kehlani accepted the Fearlessness Award, and Meagan Good received the Spirit Award. RZA was honored with the Culture Award, Bozoma Saint John took home the Pioneer Award, and Tennessee State Representative Justin Jones received the Community Award.

Founded by media personality Jason Lee, the Impact Awards recognize people whose work has shaped culture across entertainment, media, and the wider community. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Hollywood Cares Foundation, Lee’s nonprofit focused on youth leadership in underserved communities.

For a gospel artist to be celebrated on a mainstream Hollywood stage is its own kind of statement. Franklin has spent decades carrying his faith into rooms that were not built around it, and the Inspiration Award is a fitting acknowledgment of that work.