XL Fest Powers Into Year 3, Exceeding Expectations with Nearly 4000 Attendees
In its third and most powerful year yet, XL Fest, led by producer Troy Pryor, continues to shift the paradigm – not just for Black creatives in Chicago, but for the global entertainment industry.
This year’s all-star lineup featured cinematic legend George Tillman Jr., who headlined a signature brunch experience presented by the Tate Brothers – Chicago’s own Larenz, Lahmard, and Larron Tate, now official partners in XL Fest’s growing ecosystem. Their involvement brought elevated energy, amplified star power, and a commitment to sustaining the cultural legacy of their hometown.
Let’s enjoy this thrilling recap video from XL Fest 2025…
Speakers and featured talent included:
- Vivica A. Fox
- Michael Beach
- Malinda Williams
- Vanessa Estelle Williams
- Malcolm D. Lee
- Woody McClain
- KevOnStage
- George Daniels
These artists and thought leaders brought deep insights and authentic conversations to the fest’s packed panels, screenings, and networking mixers.
“Troy has mastered the art of connecting creatives with industry powerhouses, following in the footsteps of legends like Quincy Jones and Clarence Avant. He doesn’t just host events — he builds bridges where none exist and architects legacy. With XL FEST expanding into the UK, it’s fast becoming a transatlantic hub for global collaboration,” says former BBC Producer Terry Jervis.
More Than a Festival – A Movement
A standout element this year was XL’s new collaboration with Kickstarter, designed to empower future filmmakers withdirect funding, visibility, and tools to build sustainable careers. Major brands such as AMC, Starz, JP Morgan Chase, University of Chicago, and the Obama Foundation lent their support—underscoring XL’s rising influence across media, finance, education, and civic engagement.
Every main event sold out, with almost four thousands of attendees engaging across 10 days and multiple venues. This is tremendous growth from last year’s 350 attendees. XL Fest not only drew tourists and industry figures to Chicago—it centered the city as a hub for innovation, creativity, and cultural commerce.
From licensing content with AMC directly through the XL marketplace to launching new funding opportunities for rising creators, Pryor has woven together a business model that uplifts art, fuels economic growth, and closes long-standing cultural gaps.
Long-Term Vision. Real-Time Impact.
Pryor’s long-term plan for XL Fest includes expanding its reach while keeping its mission grounded in local community impact. By creating space for untapped talent, building economic pipelines, and fostering partnerships that last, XL Fest is positioned for generational success.
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