Queen Latifah is Carnival Horizon godmother

Latifah also will participate in a 'Lip Sync Battle: Horizon' showcase that is part of Carnival Cruise Line’s shipboard reproduction of the hit Paramount Network series.

The May 23 gala will recognize long-time Carnival partner St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with a check presentation from funds raised via various activities and events, on board and ashore. Additionally, Carnival will unveil custom-designed artwork created by more than 30 St. Jude patients that will appear on Carnival Horizon’s 'Dreamscape,' a three-deck-high LED sculpture in the ship’s atrium.

Currently starring in the Fox series 'Star,' Latifah has earned an Oscar nomination, a Golden Globe nomination and a SAG Award nomination for her portrayal as Mama Morton in 'Chicago.' She also received an Emmy nomination, a Golden Globe win and a SAG Award win for performances in both 'Life Support' and 'Bessie,' an HBO biopic on the legendary jazz artist Bessie Smith, as well as accolades for her performance in NBC’s 'The Wiz Live!'

The first hip-hop artist to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Latifah has earned six Grammy nominations and a Grammy Award for Best Solo Rap Performance. Her production company, Flavor Unit Entertainment, produces award-winning television shows, blockbuster hits and independent films for a variety of Hollywood studios.

'With her fun-loving spirit and positive, can-do attitude, Queen Latifah embodies our brand and knows how to "Choose Fun" in everything she does,' Carnival president Christine Duffy said. 'Knowing that she is a long-time supporter of St. Jude and has performed and won "Lip Sync Battle" made her the ideal candidate to serve as godmother to our newest ship,' she added.

Following the event, Carnival Horizon begins its summer schedule from New York that runs through September, followed by the launch of year-round Caribbean cruises from Miami later that month.

Add Seatrade Cruise News to your Google News feed.