You know those actors that seem to steal the show in everything they’re in but you can’t quite place their name? They’re finally getting their due with the first annual Carney Awards, held Sunday, Nov. 1 at the Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills. Bob Balaban (“Gosford Park,” “Waiting for Guffman”), Bruce McGill (“MacGyver”), David Paymer (“Mr. Saturday Night”), and CCH Pounder (“ER”) are the four nominated for this inaugural event. Michael Ealy (“Barbershop,” “2 Fast 2 Furious”) will be recognized as a young artist to watch.
The awards are named after the late, great Art Carney, himself a “character” actor—and an Oscar winner and seven-time Emmy winner to boot. Nov. 1 also marks the 60th anniversary of “The Honeymooners,” in which Carney starred. The actor’s trademark Ed Norton hat will be on display for the very first time to commemorate the occasion.
“We believe these character actors are not being given the recognition they deserve as the Supporting Acting Award is now mostly going to leading men and women,” Carney Award producers said, in a statement. “Our award is really a lifetime achievement for those actors who are not acknowledged at other award shows but provide the fabric and texture to movies and TV shows,” added Brian Carney, son of Art Carney and voice over actor.
“It was always my father’s wish that this award be kept to the highest level of integrity and professionalism.” He cofounded the awards with Jim and David Katz.
The Nov. 1 ceremonies will have Fred Willard on board as master of ceremonies alongside presenters like Billy Crystal and John Landis. Singer Andra Day will be on hand for the evening’s entertainment.
For more information on the Carney Awards, visit thecarneyawards.com.
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