Leading the Way: Hollywood's Top 10 Diversity and Inclusion Trailblazers

Ryan Coogler, left, and Chloe Zhao introducing Michelle Satter during the Governors Awards on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024, at the Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Title: Top 10 Trailblazers: Diversity and Inclusion in Hollywood

1. Ava DuVernay: Pioneering Inclusive Storytelling - Directed 'Selma' and '13th,' highlighting racial inequality in America - Creates opportunities for underrepresented filmmakers through her production company, ARRAY

2. Viola Davis: Breaking Barriers for Black Actresses - First Black woman to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting (Oscar, Emmy, Tony) - Advocates for diverse representation and equal pay in the entertainment industry

Initiative to make Hollywood a more inclusive and representative industry.

Trailblazers creating diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.

Highlighting the top 10 individuals who have made significant contributions in advancing diversity.

3. Ryan Coogler: Empowering Black Excellence in Film - Directed 'Black Panther,' celebrating African culture and featuring a predominantly Black cast - Uses his platform to promote diversity and mentor aspiring filmmakers

4. Mindy Kaling: Carving Her Own Path as a South Asian Woman in Hollywood - Created and starred in groundbreaking shows like 'The Mindy Project' and 'Never Have I Ever' - Breaks stereotypes and increases representation of South Asian characters in media

5. Lin-Manuel Miranda: Bridging the Gap with Inclusive Theater - Composed and starred in the hit musical 'Hamilton,' blending hip-hop with American history - Supports initiatives to diversify Broadway and advocates for inclusion in all forms of artistic expression

6. Chadwick Boseman: Iconic Representation and Inspiring Legacy - Portrayed Black icons such as Jackie Robinson, James Brown, and T'Challa (Black Panther) - Fought to ensure representation and positive portrayals of Black characters on screen

7. Laverne Cox: Transgender Visibility and Advocacy - Broke barriers as the first transgender person to be nominated for an Emmy - Uses her platform to advocate for trans rights and increase representation of trans individuals in media

8. Kumail Nanjiani: A Comedic Voice for South Asian Representation - Wrote and starred in 'The Big Sick,' based on his own interracial love story - Continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes about South Asians through his work

9. Gina Rodriguez: Empowering Latina Representation - Starred in 'Jane the Virgin,' amplifying the voice and narrative of a Latina protagonist - Advocates for equal opportunities for Latinx artists and supports organizations that promote diversity

10. Jordan Peele: Redefining Horror and Tackling Social Themes - Directed 'Get Out' and 'Us,' using horror to explore race, identity, and societal biases - Sheds light on underrepresented perspectives and brings diversity to the horror genre.