By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices

Nick Cannon has made a breakthrough this week at the Cannes Film Festival.

The 'Drumline' star will be honored tonight with the "Breakthrough Actor of the Year Award," at the 'Studio' Magazine/Chopard Revelation Awards, which is one of the four official events of the annual film festival.

The 26-year old San Diego native is receiving the honor for his work in the critically acclaimed Emilio Estevez-directed drama 'Bobby.'

According to his rep, this marks the first time in the festival's history that any African American Actor has received such an honor.

"I am humbled and grateful to have received such a coveted award at this prestigious event at the Cannes Film Festival," the recently-engaged 'Wild' N' Out' producer shared. "It was a great privilege to have been a part of the amazing ensemble cast of 'Bobby' and now, to be recognized amongst such tremendous talents is truly an honor."

Cannon is sharing this award with newcomer James McAvoy ('Last King of Scotland').

The awards will be presented to the at the Carlton Hotel in Cannes, France by the award show's co-president and actor, Jude Law. Actress Evan Rachel Wood will be honored for "Breakthrough Actress."

In the fall of last year, the former Nickelodeon star signed a 'first-look' television production deal with MTV (reportedly the largest talent/producer deal in MTV's history). In the feature film arena, he has concluded a similar deal with Lion's Gate Films, his rep confirmed.

Since 2001, Studio Magazine and their entire staff cast their votes together and finalize a list of the most talented actors that are the revelations of the year. The goal is to award and encourage young actors to continue to make a difference in the film industry.

Previous recipients of the award include Hayden Christiansen, Audrey Tautou, Jonathan Rhys, Meyers, Marion Cottilard, Kelly Reilly, Kevin Zegers, Jasmine Trinca, Rodrigo Santoro and Gael Garcia Bernal.