Missy Elliott is slated to be honored with the Icon Award at this year’s Gala of the Stars, the annual fundraiser supporting Dancers Against Cancer.
The statuette will be handed to her by Janet Jackson, who wore the honor last year.
A four-time Grammy winner, the Work It artist broke barriers as the first female hip-hop performer inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and she also became the first woman rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
“Missy Elliott embodies everything the Icon Award stands for,” stated Noah Lands, the executive producer of the Gala of the Stars.
“Her pioneering artistry has inspired an entire generation of performers, and having Janet Jackson, last year’s honoree, present her with this award makes the moment even more meaningful.”
Elliott was diagnosed with Graves’ disease in 2008, which led to a prolonged period away from the public eye.
The gala will also honor dancer-choreographer Toni Basil (who reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982 with Mickey) with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and director and choreographer Vincent Paterson with the Vanguard Award.
Paula Abdul will present the Paula Abdul Legacy Award, with the recipient yet to be announced.
Dancer and television personality Maksim Chmerkovskiy will host the event on 22 October at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.
