Film Florida honored Susan Simms, Larry Crenshaw (honored posthumously), Chuck Elderd, and Vanilla Ice with Film Florida Legends Awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Florida’s rich entertainment production legacy. The four industry icons were celebrated during a special ceremony held in Broward County on May 5, 2026. Established in 2006, the Film Florida Legends Award recognizes individuals who have achieved exceptional success in the entertainment industry while serving as passionate and enduring ambassadors for the State of Florida.
“It was a priority of mine as President of Film Florida to bring back the Film Florida Legends Award Ceremony,” said outgoing Film Florida President Sandy Lighterman. “Closing out my term by helping honor these four remarkable Legends was incredibly meaningful to me. Hearing the personal stories and professional tributes shared throughout the evening was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact each of these individuals has had on both the people around them and Florida’s film and entertainment industry.”
2026 Film Florida Legends:
Susan Simms
Florida’s longtime Los Angeles Liaison for the Screen Industry, Susan Simms spent nearly 30 years connecting major productions to the state and championing its growth on a global stage.
Chuck Elderd
As Palm Beach County’s first Film Commissioner serving for over 30 years, Chuck Elderd helped shape the region into a premier production destination, generating billions in economic impact over three decades and was a founding member of Film Florida.
Larry Crenshaw
A beloved Transportation Captain and industry mainstay, Larry Crenshaw dedicated over 40 years to supporting film and television productions across Florida, leaving a lasting legacy.
Vanilla Ice
Global music icon and entertainer best known for ‘Ice Ice Baby,’ Vanilla Ice has built a lasting career spanning music, television, and real estate, while supporting Florida’s creative community.
About Film Florida: Film Florida is the chief marketing and advocating organization for Florida’s for TV, Film, and Digital Media Industry. The mission is to unite, inspire and innovate to build a more robust and retentive industry in Florida. Film Florida represents all aspects of the screen industry including film commissions, industry, labor, associations and education. The growing membership driven organization provides a network, a platform, and the benefits of playing an active part in solidifying Florida’s position as a major entertainment production destination, positive economic development driver and tourism generator. For more information about Film Florida visit FilmFlorida.org.
