The 56th NAACP Image Awards have officially begun, celebrating a diverse range of talents and achievements in television, film, literature, and beyond. The event, which is being held as a two-night virtual ceremony, streamed its first night on the NAACP Image Awards YouTube channel. Hosts Angel “ThatChickAngel” Laketa Moore and Marcus Tanksley kicked off the proceedings, which included the presentation of several awards to outstanding individuals in the entertainment and literary industries. Among the early winners were Ayo Edebiri, who won Outstanding Breakthrough Creative for her work on FX’s The Bear, and Keke Palmer, who was honored for her hosting role on NBC’s Password. Marlon Wayans also took home an award for his guest performance on Peacock’s Bel-Air, while Jamie Foxx was recognized for his Netflix comedy special What Had Happened Was. Additional winners included Taraji P. Henson, who won two awards—one for her acting in Peacock’s Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist and another for her children’s book—and Samuel L. Jackson, who was honored for his supporting role in the same series. The ceremony also celebrated achievements in writing, directing, and literary works, showcasing the breadth of talent being recognized this year.
The NAACP Image Awards, now in their 56th year, continue to be a powerful platform for amplifying Black excellence and creativity. The first night of the virtual ceremony highlighted the incredible contributions of both established stars and rising talents. MSNBC host Joy Ann Reid was another dual winner, taking home awards for her show The Reidout and her biography Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America. The hit YouTube series Gracie’s Corner also earned two awards, for Outstanding Children’s Program and Outstanding Animated Series. Meanwhile, young star Leah Sava Jeffries was recognized for her performance in Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Cree Summer won for her voiceover work on Nickelodeon’s Rugrats. These early wins set the tone for a celebration that not only honors individual achievements but also underscores the importance of representation and diversity in media. The awards also highlighted the growing influence of streaming platforms, with winners from Netflix, Peacock, Hulu, and Disney+ taking center stage.
The main broadcast of the 56th NAACP Image Awards is set to take place on February 22, airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year’s ceremony will be extended by 30 minutes to two and a half hours, allowing for a more comprehensive celebration of the honorees and their work. The event will also serve as an opportunity to drive support for communities affected by recent wildfires in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Pasadena. In partnership with local organizations, the NAACP and BET Media Group have launched the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aimed at protecting homeowners from displacement and preserving the area’s cultural heritage. This initiative reflects the NAACP Image Awards’ commitment to not only celebrating achievements but also giving back to the community.
In addition to the competitive awards, the ceremony will honor several special awardees who have made significant impacts in their fields. Vice President Kamala Harris will receive the Chairman’s Award for her leadership and advocacy, while trailblazing comedian Dave Chappelle will be presented with the President’s Award for his contributions to comedy and culture. The Wayans family—Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans, and Damon Wayans Jr.—will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, celebrating their decades-long influence on comedy and entertainment. Jotaka Eaddy, founder and CEO of #WinWithBlackWomen, and Essence Communications will also receive special awards during the Creative Honors ceremony on February 21. These honorees exemplify the spirit of the NAACP Image Awards, which seeks to recognize and uplift individuals who have made a lasting impact on their industries and communities.
The first night of the virtual ceremonies also showcased the richness of Black literature, with awards presented in multiple literary categories. Joy-Ann Reid’s Medgar and Myrlie was honored in the Biography/Autobiography category, while Alyssa Cole’s One of Us Knows: A Thriller won for Fiction. Taraji P. Henson’s children’s book You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book was also recognized, highlighting the diversity of talent across genres. The awards for Outstanding Literary Work in categories such as Non-Fiction, Poetry, and Graphic Novel further underscored the vibrancy of Black storytelling and the importance of preserving and celebrating these narratives. By honoring both emerging and established authors, the NAACP Image Awards continue to play a vital role in promoting Black literature and inspiring future generations of writers.
As the 56th NAACP Image Awards approach their main broadcast, the event promises to be a powerful celebration of Black excellence across industries. With a lineup of special honorees, talented winners, and a focus on community support, the ceremony will not only entertain but also inspire. By extending its runtime and partnering with local organizations, the NAACP Image Awards are demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the stage. Whether through recognizing groundbreaking performances, celebrating literary achievements, or giving back to the community, the 56th NAACP Image Awards are a testament to the enduring power of Black creativity and resilience. This year’s event is poised to be unforgettable, honoring the past while paving the way for a bright and inclusive future.
