The 19th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival, presented by BET Networks with founding sponsor HBO, announced the addition of the world premiere of the Denzel Washington-produced short film "Shame," which stars Tyrese Gibson (who also wrote the script) and Jennifer Hudson, and is directed by Paul Hunter. In the film, up-and-coming soul singer Lionel Jacobs (played by Gibson) is working the nightclub scene, trying to climb to the top of the charts while married to his background singer Bobbi Ann (played by Hudson). He wants to do right by his wife and their children but, his struggle with drugs and alcohol test the strength of his fidelity and their relationship. 

The screening of the film, which is set for Saturday, September 26, 2015 at 6:30pm at AMC Empire 25 on West 42nd Street, will be followed by a conversation with Gibson, who will also serve as the ambassador for this year’s festival, as was announced today. 

“I’m honored to serve as the ambassador of the 2015 Urbanworld Film Festival and to premiere my short film Shame in such a creative and exciting environment. I strive to create art across all mediums that supports and showcases our diverse landscape and Urbanworld is the perfect partner as they actively and significantly do the same. I’m thrilled to join the filmmakers showcasing their projects at the festival as we inspire, encourage and excite others through film.” says Gibson.

Alsoset to participate in the festival, ABC News Correspondent Deborah Roberts will moderate the panel discussion with prima ballerina Misty Copeland and Nelson George after the closing night film "A Ballerina’s Tale," on Saturday, September 26, 2015. Also, Gbenga Akinnagbe and Tai Beauchamp will host the festival’s invitation-only awards brunch. And Geoffrey Fletcher, Selenis Leyva ("Orange Is The New Black"), Raven-Symoné, Loretta Devine, Lamman Rucker, Angie Martinez, Bevy Smith and Omari Hardwick are also confirmed to be present for festival events.

For the complete slate of films, ticket information, and other festival specifics, visit http://www.urbanworld.org. 

The Urbanworld Film Festival runs from September 23-27, 2015 in New York.