PAFF Awards Brunch, Presented by Apple TV+, to Honor “Severance” Star Tramell Tillman with “Star on the Rise” Award

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) is closing out its 33rd annual celebration with a show-stopping finale: the highly anticipated Filmmaker Awards Brunch, presented by Apple TV+. And this year, the festival is shining a well-deserved spotlight on Tramell Tillman (“Severance”) as he receives the coveted “Star on the Rise” Award.

Set for Monday, February 17, at 11 a.m. at the elegant Palm Sophia in Culver City, the invite-only event will be a toast to the best in global Black cinema. From unveiling this year’s jury and audience-selected winners to recognizing industry game-changers, the brunch is the festival’s grand finale—a celebration of the visionaries shaping the future of film.

And at the center of it all? Tramell Tillman, the undeniable talent who has been keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with his riveting performance as Milchick in Apple TV+’s psychological thriller “Severance.” With the series now in its second season and new episodes dropping every Friday, Tillman’s nuanced, haunting portrayal has solidified him as one of Hollywood’s brightest rising stars.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Tramell Tillman, whose performance in Apple’s Severance has made him one of the most exciting talents to watch,” said Oduduwa Olatunji, PAFF Executive Director. “As PAFF continues its mission to uplift and amplify Black creatives, we are proud to recognize artists like Tramell, who are redefining the industry.”

Attended by an exclusive mix of industry insiders, filmmakers, and festival participants, the PAFF Filmmaker Awards Brunch is more than just a wrap-up event—it’s a moment to honor cinematic excellence and the future of Black storytelling. And with Apple TV+ on board as the presenting sponsor, this year’s edition is set to be a celebration worthy of Hollywood’s next big star.