Allison Janney’s earning lots of Oscar buzz for her supporting role in Tonya Harding biopic “I, Tonya,” and the seven-time Emmy winner’s award season is getting off to a strong start. Last week she was named as a nominee for the Indie Spirit Awards, and a press release has announced that she’ll be presented with the Spotlight Award-Actress at the 2018 Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF).
The five-time Golden Globe nominee will accept her honor at the fest’s annual Film Awards Gala on Tuesday, January 2. “Wonder Woman” actress Gal Gadot is this year’s Rising Star Award recipient.
Previous recipients of the Spotlight Award include Julia Roberts, Amy Adams, and Jessica Chastain.
“Allison Janney delivers a knock-out performance as Tonya Harding’s mother LaVona Golden in ‘I, Tonya.’ The usually charming Janney takes a compellingly dark turn as Tonya’s abusive, alcoholic mother,” said Festival Chairman Harold Matzner. “For this outstanding performance, which is sure to garner awards attention, it is an honor to present Allison Janney with the Spotlight Award.”
Margot Robbie-starrer “I,Tonya” has been earning raves since its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The dark comedy revisits one of the most controversial moments in sports history — the infamous attack on Harding’s fellow U.S. skater and competitor Nancy Kerrigan.
PSIFF’s 2017 honorees included Nicole Kidman, Annette Bening, and the cast of “Hidden Figures.”
“I, Tonya” hits theaters December 8. Janney stars in CBS’ “Mom” alongside Anna Faris. The sitcom is currently in its fifth season. Her other credits include “Masters of Sex,” “The West Wing,” and “Juno.”
PSIFF 2018 runs from January 2–15.
