Celebrated for his spirit, and signature sound, Otis Williams was honored with the Gentleman’s Award at the 10th Hollywood Beauty Awards.
Music icon Smokey Robinson took the stage to celebrate Otis —recognizing a career shaped by timeless music, and undeniable influence.
The annual black-tie event supported Helen Woodward Animal Center and recognized behind-the-scenes artistry in hair, makeup, styling, and photography for film, television, music, editorial, and red carpet, alongside special honorees.
Born in Texarkana, Texas, in 1941, he moved to Detroit at age 11, where he was inspired by gospel and early R&B. By high school, he formed several groups before co-founding The Temptations in 1961. Originally known as The Elgins, the group—Otis Williams, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, and Elbridge “Al” Bryant—signed with Berry Gordy’s Motown Records, where they became part of the label’s legendary roster. Smokey Robinson helped craft their breakthrough hit, “My Girl” (1965), which became a cultural milestone, later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry.
With a string of hits, The Temptations became show business titans, appearing on TV shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show, and breaking barriers with primetime specials alongside Diana Ross & The Supremes. They helped define Motown’s golden era, setting the standard for synchronized choreography and impeccable harmonies.
Williams chronicled his journey in his 1988 autobiography, which inspired the Emmy-winning miniseries Temptations and the Tony-winning Broadway musical Ain’t Too Proud. His contributions to Motown, American music, and Black culture are undeniable. In 2006, he received an honorary doctorate from Stillman College.
Now 83, Williams continues to perform as The Temptations launch a 2025 national tour, proving their legacy remains stronger than ever.
In 2018, Lionel Richie presented the premiere Gentleman’s Award to Smokey Robinson. Former honorees also include Larry King, Joe Mantegna and Edward James Olmos.
