NAACP Image Awards
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Source: Unique Nicole / Getty / Kamala Harris
In her first TV appearance since leaving office, our MVP, Kamala Harris, delivered a moving speech at the NAACP Image Awards that left social media reflecting on the kind of energy we could have had in the White House instead of what we are currently dealing with.
Saturday Night at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California, everyone was on their feet as Kamala Harris accepted the organization’s Chairman’s Award.
“This organization came into being at a moment when our country struggled with greed, bitterness and hatred. And those who forged the NAACP, those who carried its legacy forward, had no illusions about the forces they were up against — no illusions about how stony the road would be,” said to the audience members.
She continued, “We use our power; we organize, mobilize, we educate and we advocate. Because, you see, our power has never come from having an easy path. Our strength flows from our faith — faith in God, faith in each other, and our refusal to surrender to cynicism and destruction. Not because it is easy, but because it is necessary. Not because victory is guaranteed, but because the fight is worth it.”
The applause didn’t stop as Harris continued her speech.
Harris ended her speech by saying, “While we have no illusions about what we are up against in this chapter of our American story, this chapter will be written not simply by whoever occupies the Oval Office — nor by the wealthiest among us. The American story will be written by you, written by us — by we the people. Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States.”
Social Media Had Plenty To Say
Social media was in their feelings during the speech, mainly reflecting on what could have been had she won the 2024 Presidential Election and not forgiving those who didn’t vote for Harris.
“I will never forgive any of you who voted against her or sat on the sideline. You get zero grace from me,” one user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote.
Another X user said, “Ugh I can feel the pain and frustration of many people in this room. Every time VP Harris speaks, there’s hope, yes, but also a reminder that America messed up.”
A missed opportunity. You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
“I won a lot of awards recently, but this one tonight is probably the most special award I’ve ever gotten because it’s from this institution that represents these people, us people of color, Black people.”
That’s how comedian and actor Dave Chappelle began his acceptance speech upon becoming the first comedian to receive the President’s Award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards on Saturday (Feb. 22). Then gliding back and forth between being serious and, of course, humorous, he delivered insightful and compelling comments while delivering a call to arms to the entertainment industry that drew strong applause amid a standing ovation.
Chappelle continued his speech by introducing his “god brother Ben Jealous,” a former president of the NAACP. “I asked him, ‘What do you think I should say tonight?,” said Chappelle. “And Ben sent me a whole speech [to audience laughter]. But what was important? He said in 1915 the movie Birth of a Nation came out and had a hideous depiction of African Americans. And by 1927 the NAACP had opened its first office here in Hollywood. And from then, 100 years ago to this very night, they have been chipping away at this industry so that people like me can stand up in front of people and tell my story or our stories. Each and every artist in here, every opportunity we get, every time we’re on camera, on stage, we just keep chipping away at this monster of a machine. But tonight, man, I feel invigorated because all my Netflix checks cleared [more audience laughter].
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“I don’t owe anybody any work right now,” Chappelle continued in part. “So every time you see me, just know I’m only up there because I want to be right up there. I hope all of us who work in this industry feel strong and inspired and not discouraged, especially because this is a very difficult time right now, and your institution is, sadly, more relevant than it’s been in a long time. We got a lot of work to do, but it feels good to know that we’re not in it alone, that we got each other. And remember community is everything. Shout out to everybody who lost their home or was displaced from their home … Don’t ever be afraid to lean on each other. My father told me a phrase that got me all the way to where I am today. He said, “Whenever you mess up or you feel like you can’t get up, remember these words because they’re magic words. And I said, ‘What’s the words, dad?’ And he said, ‘Whoops’ [audience laughter] ’ Let’s keep it moving, y’all, let’s keep it moving.”
After thanking the NAACP and the audience before heading off stage, Chappelle also paid tribute to veteran film and TV director/ producer Stan Lathan, who was in the audience. Lathan’s lengthy list of credits includes Chappelle’s stand-up comedy shows such as Killin’ Them Softly, Equanamity and Sticks and Stones as well as Sesame Street, Sanford & Son and Def Comedy Jam.
Prefacing the award presentation was an introduction from NAACP president/CEO Derrick Johnson who said in part, “We’re honoring him with the NAACP President’s Award, an award that isn’t just about recognizing legends in their field but about celebrating their impact on culture. For decades, Dave has made us laugh like no one else can, and let’s be real. We need that now more than ever. Countless others have recognized him for his genius in comedy, but we’re honoring him for his fearless social commentary, for making us think, for pushing boundaries and for the way his comedy has challenged the status quo and resonated with people of every background.”
Johnson’s comments were followed by a video segment featuring various clips from Chappelle’s career onstage and in television and film as well as his philanthropic work including his support of The Duke Ellington School of the Arts and the Flint water crisis. Among the industry colleagues and friends participating in the video was fellow comedian and actor Eddie Murphy who said, “Dave is maybe the most intellectual comedian ever.”
Chappelle is a six-time Grammy Award winner for best comedy album, most recently in February for The Dreamer. His accolades also include five Primetime Emmy Awards: three for his Netflix comedy specials Sticks & Stones and Equanimity & The Bird Revelation and two for hosting Saturday Night Live in 2017 and 2021. Chappelle is also the 2019 recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
Keke Palmer was named entertainer of the year at the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, which were held at Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif. on Saturday (Feb. 22). The other nominees in the category were Cynthia Erivo, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart and Shannon Sharpe.
Palmer also won outstanding host in a reality/reality competition, game show or variety series or special for the reboot of Password, but her win in the top category was considered a surprise. In accepting her award, she made clear she expected the red-hot Erivo to win.
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The NAACP presented dozens of awards, most of them prior to the televised ceremony. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, which had won a Grammy for album of the year on Feb. 2, was voted outstanding album. It’s Bey’s fourth win in that category, which puts her in a tie with Whitney Houston for the most awards in that category in the show’s history. Beyoncé also won outstanding female artist for a record-extending eighth time.
Chris Brown won outstanding male artist for the fourth time, which puts him in tie with Usher for second place among all winners in this category. Luther Vandross leads with seven wins. (Vandross’ continuing legacy was seen when Luther: Never Too Much won for outstanding documentary – motion pictures.) Brown won two additional awards. “Residuals” won outstanding soul/R&B song.“Hmmm,” featuring Davido, took outstanding international song.
Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” which won five Grammys, including record and song of the year, won outstanding hip-hop/rap song and outstanding music video/visual album.
Doechii won outstanding new artist. She was Grammy-nominated for best new artist, but lost to Chappell Roan. This is the sixth year in a row that the NAACP winner in this category was at least nominated for the Grammy for best new artist.
The Six Triple Eight won outstanding motion picture. This is the second film directed by Tyler Perry to win in this category, following For Colored Girls (2011). Denzel Washington, Taylor Hackford and Ryan Coogler have also directed two NAACP Image Award winners in this category.
Neither of the Black actors nominated for lead acting Oscars this year won in their categories at the NAACP Image Awards. Erivo (Wicked) lost to Kerry Washington for The Six Triple Eight. Colman Domingo (Sing Sing) lost to Martin Lawrence for Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
Three notable second-generation stars won awards (along with their famous parents). Blue Ivy Carter, Beyoncé’s 13-year-old daughter, won for outstanding character voice performance, motion picture for Mufasa: The Lion King. Malcolm Washington, the son of Denzel Washington, won for outstanding breakthrough creative, motion picture, for The Piano Lesson. His father won outstanding supporting actor in a motion picture for Gladiator II. Damon Wayans Jr. won outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series for Poppa’s House. His father Damon Wayans wonthe lead actor prize for that same show.
Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… won outstanding variety show (series or special). On the Netflix special, Foxx shed light on his April 2023 health emergency. He revealed that he had a brain bleed that led to a stroke which resulted in his hospitalization.
The Prince of Death Row Records, about singer October London, won outstanding short-form series or special – reality/nonfiction/documentary.
The Jennifer Hudson Show won outstanding talk series, while the show’s host won outstanding host in a talk or news/information (series or special), individual or ensemble. Hudson won entertainer of the year at the NAACP show three years ago.
Cliff “Method Man” Smith won outstanding supporting actor in a drama series for Power Book II: Ghost. Smith, a member of the East Coast hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan, has had significant success in both hip-hop and acting.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris received the Chairman’s Award. Dave Chappelle became the first comedian to receive the President’s Award. The BET Media Group won the NAACP Founders Award.
The Wayans Family received the Hall of Fame Award. In addition, three family members won individual honors. As noted, Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. both won for Poppa’s House. Marlon Wayans won outstanding guest performance for Bel Air.
Ledisi, joined by a gospel choir, performed the gospel standard “How I Got Over” in a special segment remembering the victims of the recent wildfires, which devastated the historically-Black neighborhood of Altadena, Calif. Clara Ward wrote the song, which has been performed by such greats as Mahalia Jackson and Aretha Franklin.
Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s “The Golden Time of Day” soundtracked the In Memoriam spot, which included Beverly. There was a separate tribute to Quincy Jones, which included clips of such signature works “Ai No Corrida,” Brothers Johnson’s “Stomp!” and the funky instrumental theme to TV’s Sanford & Son.
Here’s a complete list of the nominations in key categories in the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, with winners marked.
Entertainer of the year
Cynthia Erivo
WINNER: Keke Palmer
Kendrick Lamar
Kevin Hart
Shannon Sharpe
Outstanding album
Alligator Bites Never Heal — Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
Cape Town to Cairo — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
Coming Home — Usher (mega/gamma.)
WINNER: Cowboy Carter — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
Glorious — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding soul/R&B song
“16 CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
“Here We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
“I Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
WINNER: “Residuals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
“Saturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
Outstanding hip hop/rap song
“Mamushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group)
“Murdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings)
“Noid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records)
WINNER: “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
“Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding male artist
WINNER: Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
J. Cole (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
October London (Death Row Records/gamma.)
Usher (mega/gamma.)
Outstanding female artist
WINNER: Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
H.E.R. (RCA Records)
Outstanding new artist
WINNER: Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
Myles Smith (RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment)
Samoht (Affective Music)
Shaboozey (American Dogwood/Empire)
Tyla (Epic Records)
Outstanding duo, group or collaboration (traditional)
WINNER: Adam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)
Leela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not by Power)” (Tribl Records)
Muni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings)
Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett & Buddy McLain — “Thankful” (McLain Music, LLC)
Outstanding duo, group or collaboration (contemporary)
FLO & GloRilla — “In My Bag” (Island Records)
GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore — “RAIN DOWN ON ME” (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Usher & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.)
Victoria Monét feat. Usher — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
WINNER: Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)
Outstanding gospel/Christian album
Heart of a Human — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration)
WINNER: Live Breathe Fight — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
Still Karen — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel)
Sunny Days — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
The Maverick Way Reimagined — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)
Outstanding international song
“Close” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings)
WINNER: “Hmmm” — Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
“Jump” — Tyla (Epic Records)
“Love Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93)
“Piece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)
Outstanding music video/visual album
“Alright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
“Alter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
“Boy Bye” — Chloe Bailey (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
WINNER: “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
“Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding soundtrack/compilation album
Bob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack) (Tuff Gong/Island Records)
Genius: MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series) (Hollywood Records)
Reasonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack) (Hollywood Records)
The Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Geneva Club under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC)
WINNER: Wicked: The Soundtrack (Republic Records)
Outstanding gospel/Christian song
“Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
“Do It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel)
“God Problems (Not by Power)” — Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick (Tribl Records)
“I Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group)
WINNER: “Working for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
Outstanding jazz album
Creole Orchestra — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music)
Epic Cool — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music)
Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jackson Records)
On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute — Matthew Whitaker (MOCAT Records)
WINNER: Portrait — Samara Joy (Verve Records)
Outstanding original score for television/motion picture
Challengers (Original Score) (Milan Records)
Dune: Part Two (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (WaterTower Music)
WINNER: Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack) (Walt Disney Records)
The American Society of Magical Negroes (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Back Lot Music)
The Book of Clarence (Original Motion Picture Score) (Milan Records)
Outstanding motion picture
Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
WINNER: The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding actor in a motion picture
André Holland — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Colman Domingo — Sing Sing (A24)
John David Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Kingsley Ben-Adir — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
WINNER: Martin Lawrence — Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
Outstanding actress in a motion picture
Cynthia Erivo — Wicked (Universal Pictures)
WINNER: Kerry Washington — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Lashana Lynch — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
Lupita Nyong’o — A Quiet Place: Day One (Paramount Pictures)
Regina King — Shirley (Netflix)
Outstanding supporting actor in a motion picture
Brian Tyree Henry — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
Corey Hawkins — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
David Alan Grier — The American Society of Magical Negroes (Focus Features)
WINNER: Denzel Washington — Gladiator II (Paramount Pictures)
Samuel L. Jackson — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Outstanding supporting actress in a motion picture
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Danielle Deadwyler — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
WINNER: Ebony Obsidian — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Lynn Whitfield — Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
Outstanding independent motion picture
Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Rob Peace (Republic Pictures)
WINNER: Sing Sing (A24)
We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)
Outstanding international motion picture
El lugar de la otra (Netflix)
WINNER: Emilia Pérez (Netflix)
Memoir of a Snail (IFC Films)
The Seed of the Sacred Fig (NEON)
The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi (ArtMattan Films)
Outstanding breakthrough performance in a motion picture
Brandon Wilson — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Clarence Maclin — Sing Sing (A24)
Danielle Deadwyler — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
WINNER: Ebony Obsidian — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Ryan Destiny — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding ensemble cast in a motion picture
Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
WINNER: The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding animated motion picture
WINNER: Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Kung Fu Panda 4 (DreamWorks Animation)
Moana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Piece by Piece (Focus Features)
The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Outstanding character voice–over performance – motion picture
Aaron Pierre — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Anika Noni Rose — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Ayo Edebiri — Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
WINNER: Blue Ivy Carter — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Lupita Nyong’o — The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Outstanding short form (live action)
Chocolate with Sprinkles (AFI)
Definitely Not a Monster
If They Took Us Back
My Brother & Me (MeowBark Films)
WINNER: Superman Doesn’t Steal
Outstanding short form (animated)
if(fy) (OTB/The Hidden Hand Studios)
Nate & John (Unity Animation Project, LLC)
WINNER: Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz “Jackie Robinson” (Exhibit Treal Studios)
Self (Pixar Animation Studios)
Walk in the Light (419 Studios)
Outstanding breakthrough creative (motion picture)
David Fortune — Color Book (Tribeca Studios)
WINNER: Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Titus Kaphar — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Zoë Kravitz — Blink Twice (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding youth performance in a motion picture
Anthony B. Jenkins — The Deliverance (Netflix)
Blake Cameron James — We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)
Percy Daggs IV — Never Let Go (Lionsgate)
Jeremiah Daniels — Color Book (Tribeca Studios)
WINNER: Skylar Aleece Smith — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Outstanding cinematography in a motion picture
Andrés Arochi — Longlegs (NEON)
WINNER: Jomo Fray — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Justin Derry — She Taught Love (Andscape)
Lachlan Milne — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Rob Hardy — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
Outstanding comedy series
WINNER: Abbott Elementary (ABC)
How to Die Alone (Hulu)
Poppa’s House (CBS)
The Neighborhood (CBS)
The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding actor in a comedy series
Cedric The Entertainer — The Neighborhood (CBS)
WINNER: Damon Wayans — Poppa’s House (CBS)
David Alan Grier — St. Denis Medical (NBC)
Delroy Lindo — UnPrisoned (Hulu)
Mike Epps — The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding actress in a comedy series
Ayo Edebiri — The Bear (FX/Hulu)
Kerry Washington — UnPrisoned (Hulu)
Natasha Rothwell — How to Die Alone (Hulu)
WINNER: Quinta Brunson — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Tichina Arnold — The Neighborhood (CBS)
Outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series
WINNER: Damon Wayans Jr. — Poppa’s House (CBS)
Giancarlo Esposito — The Gentlemen (Netflix)
Kenan Thompson — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Tyler James Williams — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
William Stanford Davis — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series
WINNER: Danielle Pinnock — Ghosts (CBS)
Ego Nwodim — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Janelle James — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Sheryl Lee Ralph — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Wanda Sykes — The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding drama series
9-1-1 (ABC)
Bel-Air (Peacock)
WINNER: Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Found (NBC)
Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
Outstanding actor in a drama series
Aldis Hodge — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Donald Glover — Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Amazon Prime Video)
Harold Perrineau — FROM (MGM+)
Jabari Banks — Bel-Air (Peacock)
WINNER: Michael Rainey Jr. — Power Book II: Ghost (Starz)
Outstanding actress in a drama series
Angela Bassett — 9-1-1 (ABC)
Emayatzy Corinealdi — Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
WINNER: Queen Latifah — The Equalizer (CBS)
Shanola Hampton — Found (NBC)
Zoe Saldaña — Lioness (Paramount+)
Outstanding supporting actor in a drama series
Adrian Holmes — Bel-Air (Peacock)
WINNER: Cliff “Method Man” Smith — Power Book II: Ghost (Starz)
Isaiah Mustafa — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Jacob Latimore — The Chi (Paramount+)
Morris Chestnut — Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
Outstanding supporting actress in a drama series
Adjoa Andoh — Bridgerton (Netflix)
Coco Jones — Bel-Air (Peacock)
Golda Rosheuvel — Bridgerton (Netflix)
Lorraine Toussaint — The Equalizer (CBS)
WINNER: Lynn Whitfield — The Chi (Paramount+)
Outstanding limited television (series, special or movie)
WINNER: Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Griselda (Netflix)
Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
The Madness (Netflix)
Outstanding actor in a limited television (series, special or movie)
WINNER: Aaron Pierre — Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
Colman Domingo — The Madness (Netflix)
Kelvin Harrison Jr. — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Kevin Hart — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Laurence Fishburne — Clipped (FX/Hulu)
Outstanding actress in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
WINNER: Naturi Naughton — Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie (Lifetime)
Sanaa Lathan — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Sofía Vergara — Griselda (Netflix)
Uzo Aduba — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Outstanding supporting actor in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Don Cheadle — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Luke James — Them: The Scare (Amazon Prime Video)
Ron Cephas Jones — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
WINNER: Samuel L. Jackson — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Terrence Howard — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Outstanding supporting actress in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Brandy Norwood — Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
Jayme Lawson — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Loretta Devine — Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love (Lifetime)
Sanaa Lathan — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
WINNER: Taraji P. Henson — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Outstanding news/information (series or special)
Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
Laura Coates Live (CNN)
NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
WINNER: The ReidOut (MSNBC)
Outstanding talk series
Hart to Heart (Peacock)
Sherri (Syndicated)
Tamron Hall Show (Syndicated)
WINNER: The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)
The Shop Season 7 (YouTube)
Outstanding reality program, reality competition or game show (series)
WINNER: Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
Password (NBC)
Rhythm + Flow (Netflix)
The Real Housewives of Potomac (Bravo)
Tia Mowry: My Next Act (WeTV)
Outstanding variety show (series or special)
BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
Deon Cole: Ok, Mister (Netflix)
WINNER: Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… (Netflix)
Katt Williams: Woke Foke (Netflix)
Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Outstanding children’s program
Craig of the Creek (Cartoon Network)
Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
WINNER: Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
Sesame Street (MAX)
Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin (Apple TV+)
Outstanding performance by a youth (series, special, television movie or limited–series)
Caleb Elijah — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Graceyn Hollingsworth — Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
WINNER: Leah Sava Jeffries — Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Disney+)
Melody Hurd — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
TJ Mixson — The Madness (Netflix)
Outstanding host in a talk or news/information (series or special) – individual or ensemble
Abby Phillip — NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
Henry Louis Gates Jr. — Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
WINNER: Jennifer Hudson — The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)
Joy Reid — The Reidout (MSNBC)
Sherri Shepherd — Sherri (Syndicated)
Outstanding host in a reality/reality competition, game show or variety (series or special) – individual or ensemble
Alfonso Ribeiro — Dancing With the Stars (ABC)
WINNER: Keke Palmer — Password (NBC)
Nick Cannon — The Masked Singer (FOX)
Steve Harvey — Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
Taraji P. Henson — BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
Outstanding guest performance
Ayo Edebiri — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Cree Summer — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Keegan-Michael Key — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
WINNER: Marlon Wayans — Bel-Air (Peacock)
Maya Rudolph — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Outstanding animated series
Disney Jr.’s Ariel (Disney Jr.)
Everybody Still Hates Chris (Comedy Central)
WINNER: Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
Iwájú (Disney+)
Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney Channel)
Outstanding character voice-over performance (television)
Angela Bassett — Orion and the Dark (Netflix)
WINNER: Cree Summer — Rugrats (Nickelodeon)
Cree Summer — The Legend of Vox Machina (Amazon Prime Video)
Dawnn Lewis — Star Trek: Lower Decks (Paramount+)
Keke Palmer — The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy (Amazon Prime Video)
Outstanding short form series or special – reality/nonfiction /documentary
In the Margins (PBS)
NCAA Basketball on CBS Sports (CBS)
Roots of Resistance (PBS)
SC Featured (ESPN)
WINNER: The Prince of Death Row Records (YouTube TV)
Outstanding breakthrough creative (television)
WINNER: Ayo Edebiri — The Bear (FX/Hulu)
Diarra Kilpatrick — Diarra From Detroit (BET+)
Maurice Williams — The Madness (Netflix)
Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
Vince Staples — The Vince Staples Show (Netflix)
Outstanding documentary (film)
Daughters (Netflix)
Frida (Amazon MGM Studios)
King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones (Freestyle Digital Media)
WINNER: Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)
Outstanding documentary (television)
WINNER: Black Barbie: A Documentary (Netflix)
Black Twitter: A People’s History (Hulu)
Gospel (PBS)
Simone Biles Rising (Netflix)
Sprint (Netflix)
Outstanding short form documentary (film)
Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps (American Masters and Firelight Media)
Danielle Scott: Ancestral Call (American Masters and Firelight Media)
WINNER: How to Sue the Klan
Judging Juries
Silent Killer (Kaila Love Jones Films)
Outstanding social media personality of the year
Kai Cenat
Keith Lee
RaeShanda Lias
WINNER: Shirley Raines
Tony Baker
The Mildred Bond Roxborough Social Justice Impact Award
WINNER: Jotaka Eaddy
Vanguard Award
WINNER: Essence
Comedian, actor and writer Deon Cole will host the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS.
“BET is excited to partner once again with the incomparable Deon Cole, whose effortless charm and humor resonate deeply with our audiences,” Connie Orlando, EVP of specials, music programming and music strategy at BET, said in a statement.
“As a comedian, actor, and cultural icon, Deon Cole has consistently used his talent to entertain, uplift and inspire,” added Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO. “His humor, deep appreciation for the culture and commitment to our community has cemented him as an entertainment legend.”
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This is Cole’s first time hosting the NAACP Image Awards. Queen Latifah hosted the show the last two years. Blackish star Anthony Anderson hosted the nine years before that.
BET Media Group will receive the NAACP Founders Award on the telecast. The award recognizes BET Media Group’s 45-year legacy of amplifying Black culture.
Launched in 1980 by founders Bob and Sheila Johnson, BET quickly became a force. Under Debra Lee’s leadership, the network expanded its global footprint. Today, under Scott Mills’ leadership, BET has become a multi-platform media powerhouse, spanning television, streaming, digital, live events and international markets.
“The Founder’s Award honors those who dare to dream beyond limits and turn vision into reality. Johnson said in a statement. “For more than four decades, BET has been an innovator of culture, creating space for our community to see themselves recognized on-screen and inspiring generations to believe that their dreams are within reach. BET has redefined media by championing bold storytelling, celebrating unforgettable music and delivering groundbreaking moments that resonate with audiences worldwide. Through their undeniable leadership in the entertainment industry, BET has continuously pushed boundaries and set new standards for others to follow in their path.”
Previous recipients of the Founders Award include Toni Vaz, founder of the NAACP Image Awards, and country music icon Garth Brooks.
Previously announced special award recipients at this year’s NAACP Image Awards are comedian Dave Chappelle (President’s Award) and The Wayans Family (NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame) and former Vice President Kamala Harris (Chairman’s Award).
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be telecast live on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. NAACP will also recognize winners in non–televised categories at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Friday, Feb. 21.
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Former Vice President Kamala Harris will be honored with the Chairman’s Award at the upcoming NAACP Image Awards.
The former vice president of the United States, Kamala Harris, will be honored with the prestigious Chairman’s Award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards taking place on Saturday (February 22). The award is given to individuals who “excel in public service and leverage their unique platforms to ignite and drive meaningful change.” Harris made history as the first woman, the first Black person, and the first South Asian person to serve as vice president with former President Joe Biden before accepting the nomination by the Democratic Party to run for president last summer, losing to Donald Trump in the November election. It will mark the first television appearance of the former vice president since leaving office last month.
“Vice President Kamala Harris is more than a leader – she is a force of change, driven by an unwavering passion to shape a brighter, more equitable future. It is with great honor that we present her with the Chairman’s Award at this year’s NAACP Image Awards, celebrating her relentless dedication to justice, equality, and the betterment of our society,” said Leon W. Russell, chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors in the press release. “Her legacy is built on courage, compassion, and a profound commitment to uplifting those who need it most. Her tireless advocacy for the most vulnerable among us has made her a beacon of hope and progress.”
BET CEO and President Scott Mills called it a “privilege” to bestow the award upon Harris, saying that she was deserving for “both her historic accomplishments and her incredible legacy of service to America and our community” during her career. “Her unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and progress has inspired millions, and her journey is a powerful testament to that which can be achieved through resilience, strength, and brilliance,” Mills said.
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and aired live on CBS and BET at 8 P.M. EST. Other notable honorees that will be in attendance are legendary comedian Dave Chappelle, who will receive the President’s Award at the ceremony, and the Wayans family – Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. – who will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris will make her first major appearance since leaving office on Jan. 20 to accept the Chairman’s Award during the 56th NAACP Image Awards on Saturday, Feb. 22. The show will air live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif., at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours.
The Chairman’s Award honors individuals who “excel in public service and leverage their unique platforms to ignite and drive meaningful change.” Past honorees include then-Sen. Barack Obama (2005), former VP Al Gore in tandem with Kenyan social, environmental and political activist Wangari Waathati, Commerce Secretary Ron Brown, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, the late Rep. John Lewis, Rev. James Lawson, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, Rep. Maxine Waters and former Surgeon General Regina Benjamin.
Previously announced special award recipients at this year’s NAACP Image Awards are comedian Dave Chappelle (President’s Award) and The Wayans Family (NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame).
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Harris made history as the first woman, Black person and South Asian person to become vice president. She previously served as U.S. Senator and California Attorney General. In 2024, she became the first Black and South Asian woman nominated for president by a major party, receiving more than 75 million votes in what BET reminds us was “the shortest modern general election campaign.” President Biden was fully expected to be the Democratic nominee until a shaky debate performance on June 27 caused many, even in his own party, to call for a new nominee. Biden withdrew on July 21. Harris was voted the party’s nominee by delegates on Aug. 5, just three months before Election Day.
“Vice President Kamala Harris is more than a leader – she is a force of change, driven by an unwavering passion to shape a brighter, more equitable future,” Leon W. Russell, chair, NAACP national board of directors said in a statement. “… Her legacy is built on courage, compassion, and a profound commitment to uplifting those who need it most. Her tireless advocacy for the most vulnerable among us has made her a beacon of hope and progress.”
“Vice President Harris is deeply deserving of the NAACP Chairman’s awards for both her historic accomplishments and her incredible legacy of service to America and our community,” added Scott Mills, president and CEO of BET Media Group. “… Her unwavering commitment to justice, equity and progress has inspired millions, and her journey is a powerful testament to that which can be achieved through resilience, strength and brilliance.
“Vice President Harris embodies the power, grace and unyielding courage that Black women have long brought to the heart of the United States,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “With bold determination, Vice President Harris fights for justice, amplifies the voices of the marginalized and stands as a beacon of hope. She embodies the resilience and brilliance of Black women, uplifting their legacy as the driving force behind change in this country. VP Harris reminds us all that when Black women lead, the entire nation rises.”
Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart and Shannon Sharpe are competing for entertainer of the year at this year’s NAACP Image Awards. GloRilla received the most nominations in the music/recording categories, with six, followed by Doechii, Lamar and Usher, with four nods each. RCA Records received 11 nominations, the most among record labels.
NAACP will recognize winners in non-televised categories virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 18, and Wednesday, Feb. 19, on its YouTube channel and at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Friday, Feb. 21.
The producers of the 2025 NAACP Image Awards seem to understand that we could all use a laugh these days. Two days after announcing that comedian Dave Chappelle will receive the President’s Award during the awards show on Saturday, Feb. 22, they are coming back with the news that The Wayans family will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.
Wayans family members include Keenen Ivory Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Kim Wayans, Damon Wayans Jr., Damien Dante Wayans and Chaunté Wayans. Works created by Wayans family members include the Scary Movie film series, The Wayans Bros., In Living Color, Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, White Chicks, My Wife and Kids, and Little Man.
The Hall of Fame Award is presented to individuals or groups who have been pioneers in their respective fields, and whose influence continues to shape their industry. The Wayans Family are the fifth recipients primarily known for comedy, following Richard Pryor (1996), Bill Cosby (2007), Eddie Murphy (2021) and Good Times star Esther Rolle (1987).
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The 56th NAACP Image Awards are set to air live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours.
“For decades, the Wayans family has been at the forefront of comedy, breaking barriers and opening doors for waves of entertainers,” Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO, said in a statement. “Their trailblazing work in television, film and stand-up has transcended pop culture and cemented their legacy. Recognizing their achievements with this induction is a celebration of a multi-generational legacy that continues to advance and uplift communities.”
“The Wayans family revolutionized comedy by blending cultural commentary and fearless humor,” added Connie Orlando, EVP of specials, music programming and music strategy at BET. “From In Living Color to blockbuster films, their influence spans generations, breaking barriers for Black entertainers and redefining mainstream comedy. Their ability to push boundaries while resonating with diverse audiences has left an undeniable mark on the industry.”
Keenen Ivory Wayans created the groundbreaking sketch comedy series In Living Color. That Fox series launched the careers of such Hollywood heavyweights as Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Lopez, while setting new standards for diverse storytelling. Wayans won a Primetime Emmy in 1990 as an executive producer of that series, which was voted outstanding variety music or comedy series. Wayans received six nominations for his work on that show. His brother Damon Wayans received four.
By visiting the NAACP Image Awards’ website, the public can vote to determine the winners in select categories. NAACP will recognize winners in non-televised categories virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 18, and Wednesday, Feb. 19, on its YouTube channel and at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Friday, Feb. 21.
Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart and Shannon Sharpe are competing for entertainer of the year. GloRilla received the most nominations in the music/recording categories, with six, followed by Doechii, Lamar and Usher, with four nods each. RCA Records received 11 nominations, the most among record labels.
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Dave Chappelle will receive the President’s Award at the upcoming NAACP Image Awards, which will be held later this month.
On Tuesday (February 11), the NAACP announced that the iconic comedian Dave Chappelle will be the recipient of their lauded President’s Award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards ceremony, which will be held on February 22. The award, which is bestowed “in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service”, has been given to such luminaries as Usher, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Dwyane Wade, Rihanna, LeBron James, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, and Ms. Lauryn Hill. The honor comes at a keen moment for Chappelle, as he’s preparing to embark on another tour this year, and was the host of Saturday Night Live after the 2024 presidential election last November. He’s slated to take part in the variety show’s 50th anniversary special which will be aired on February 16.
“The President’s Award honors an unwavering dedication to community, and throughout his distinguished career, Dave Chappelle has consistently been recognized as a powerful voice of social consciousness,” said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson in the press release announcing the honor. “Through his unique ability to transform complex political issues into thought-provoking humor, Dave has solidified his place as one of the most impactful voices of our time. His work sparks conversations that compel people to examine their own beliefs, proving that in an age where open dialogue is increasingly rare, comedy can be both a powerful truth-teller and a driver of progress.”
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California on February 22 at 8 P.M. EST, and aired live on BET and CBS. This year, the event will be extended to run for 2.5 hours and honor the Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Pasadena communities who have been affected by the recent wildfires. The ceremony will also provide support for the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, which was created to preserve the area’s cultural heritage and to defend homeowners from being displaced. The fund was created through a partnership between BET Media Group, NAACP, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole (JSSK), and WME with LA County. The fund collaborated with and received feedback from several local community organizations, including Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA,
Dave Chappelle will become the first comedian to receive the President’s Award during the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, which is set to air live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours.
The President’s Award is presented in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service. Previous recipients include a wide range of public figures, including six recording stars – Ella Fitzgerald (1967), Ms. Lauryn Hill (1999), John Legend (2016), Jay-Z (2019), Rihanna (2020) and Usher (2024).
“The President’s Award honors an unwavering dedication to community, and throughout his distinguished career, Dave Chappelle has consistently been recognized as a powerful voice of social consciousness,” Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO, said in a statement. “Through his unique ability to transform complex political issues into thought-provoking humor, Dave has solidified his place as one of the most impactful voices of our time. His work sparks conversations that compel people to examine their own beliefs, proving that in an age where open dialogue is increasingly rare, comedy can be both a powerful truth-teller and a driver of progress.”
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Chappelle, 51, was the 2019 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. On Feb. 2, he won his sixth Grammy Award for best comedy album, which is just one shy of Bill Cosby’s record seven wins in the category. Chappelle has also received five Primetime Emmy Awards – three for his Netflix comedy specials Equanimity (2018) and Sticks & Stones (2020), and two for hosting Saturday Night Live (2017 and 2021).
By visiting the NAACP Image Awards’ website, the public can vote to determine the winners of the 56th annual event in select categories. NAACP will recognize winners in non-televised categories virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 18, and Wednesday, Feb. 19, on its YouTube channel and at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Friday, Feb. 21.
BET Media Group, NAACP, JSSK (Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, a media and entertainment law firm) and the WME entertainment agency have partnered with L.A. County to launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund to support the recovery of historically Black neighborhoods impacted by the Eaton Fire. This effort, a collaboration with local community organizations such as Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage and WalkGood L.A., is aimed at protecting homeowners from displacement and preserving the community’s cultural heritage.
Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart and Shannon Sharpe are competing for entertainer of the year at the 56th NAACP Image Awards. GloRilla received the most nominations in the music/recording categories, with six, followed by Doechii, Lamar and Usher, with four nods each. RCA Records received 11 nominations, the most among record labels.
Nominations were announced Tuesday (Jan. 7) live on CBS Mornings by singer and actress Chlöe Bailey and NAACP president and CEO Derrick Johnson and on YouTube by actress Novi Brown and musician/actor Trevor Jackson.
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The nominees for outstanding album are Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal, PJ Morton’s Cape Town to Cairo, Usher’s Coming Home, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and GloRilla’s Glorious. Cowboy Carter is nominated for both album of the year and best country album at the upcoming Grammy Awards. Coming Home is Grammy-nominated for best R&B album; Alligator Bites Never Heal for best rap album.
Doechii, Myles Smith, Samoht, Shaboozey and Tyla are vying for the Image Award for outstanding new artist. Doechii and Shaboozey are nominated for best new artist at the Grammys. Tyla wasn’t eligible in that category because she won a Grammy at last year’s ceremony.
The Piano Lesson leads in motion picture categories with 14 nods, followed by The Book of Clarence with six.
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist leads across the television categories with nine nominations. Netflix garnered an impressive 64 nominations. Ayo Edebiri is the leading performer in the television and streaming categories with four nominations – three for her role in The Bear and one for Saturday Night Live.
Palmer earned four total nominations. In addition to her nod for entertainer of the year, she was recognized for hosting a revival of the classic game show Password, acting in The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy, and hosting her own podcast “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer.”
By visiting NAACPImageAwards.net, the public can vote to determine the winners in select categories. Voting closes Feb. 7 at midnight ET. Winners will be revealed over two days next month – on Friday, Feb. 21, at the Creative Honors Ceremonies, which will stream on NAACPImageAwards.net, and on Saturday, Feb. 22, during a two-hour live TV special, airing at 8 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. PT on BET and CBS.
The show will be held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif. The theme of this year’s show is “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.”
Here’s a complete list of the nominations in the two general categories, as well as the 15 recording; 16 motion picture; 28 television & streaming; and three documentary categories. In addition, there are four writing; five directing; nine literary; five podcast; three costume design, makeup and hairstyling; and one stuntwork category. To see those nominations, go to NAACPImageAwards.net.
Entertainer of the year
Cynthia Erivo
Keke Palmer
Kendrick Lamar
Kevin Hart
Shannon Sharpe
Outstanding social media personality of the year
Kai Cenat
Keith Lee
RaeShanda Lias
Shirley Raines
Tony Baker
Outstanding album
Alligator Bites Never Heal — Doechii (Epic Records)
Cape Town to Cairo — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
Coming Home — Usher (mega/gamma.)
Cowboy Carter — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
Glorious — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding soul/R&B song
“16 CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
“Here We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
“I Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
“Residuals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
“Saturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
Outstanding hip hop/rap song
“Mamushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group)
“Murdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings)
“Noid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records)
“Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
“Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding male artist
Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
J. Cole (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
October London (Death Row Records/gamma.)
Usher (mega/gamma.)
Outstanding female artist
Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
H.E.R. (RCA Records)
Outstanding new artist
Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
Myles Smith (RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment)
Samoht (Affective Music)
Shaboozey (American Dogwood/Empire)
Tyla (Epic Records)
Outstanding duo, group or collaboration (traditional)
Adam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)
Leela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not by Power)” (Tribl Records)
Muni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings)
Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett & Buddy McLain — “Thankful” (McLain Music, LLC)
Outstanding duo, group or collaboration (contemporary)
FLO & GloRilla — “In My Bag” (Island Records)
GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore — “RAIN DOWN ON ME” (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Usher & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.)
Victoria Monét feat. Usher — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
Outstanding gospel/Christian album
Heart of a Human — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration)
Live Breathe Fight — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
Still Karen — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel)
Sunny Days — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
The Maverick Way Reimagined — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)
Outstanding international song
“Close” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings)
“Hmmm” — Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
“Jump” — Tyla (Epic Records)
“Love Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93)
“Piece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)
Outstanding music video/visual album
“Alright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
“Alter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
“Boy Bye” — Chlöe (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
“Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
“Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding soundtrack/compilation album
Bob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack) (Tuff Gong/Island Records)
Genius: MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series) (Hollywood Records)
Reasonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack) (Hollywood Records)
The Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Geneva Club under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC)
Wicked: The Soundtrack (Republic Records)
Outstanding gospel/Christian song
“Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
“Do It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel)
“God Problems (Not by Power)” — (Tribl Records)
“I Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group)
“Working for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
Outstanding jazz album
Creole Orchestra — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music)
Epic Cool — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music)
Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jackson Records)
On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute — Matthew Whitaker (MOCAT Records)
Portrait — Samara Joy (Verve Records)
Outstanding original score for television/motion picture
Challengers (Original Score) (Milan Records)
Dune: Part Two (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (WaterTower Music)
Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack) (Walt Disney Records)
The American Society of Magical Negroes (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Back Lot Music)
The Book of Clarence (Original Motion Picture Score) (Milan Records)
Outstanding motion picture
Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding actor in a motion picture
André Holland — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Colman Domingo — Sing Sing (A24)
John David Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Kingsley Ben-Adir — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
Martin Lawrence — Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
Outstanding actress in a motion picture
Cynthia Erivo — Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Kerry Washington — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Lashana Lynch — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
Lupita Nyong’o — A Quiet Place: Day One (Paramount Pictures)
Regina King — Shirley (Netflix)
Outstanding supporting actor in a motion picture
Brian Tyree Henry — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
Corey Hawkins — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
David Alan Grier — The American Society of Magical Negroes (Focus Features)
Denzel Washington — Gladiator II (Paramount Pictures)
Samuel L. Jackson — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Outstanding supporting actress in a motion picture
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Danielle Deadwyler — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Ebony Obsidian — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Lynn Whitfield — Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
Outstanding independent motion picture
Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Rob Peace (Republic Pictures)
Sing Sing (A24)
We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)
Outstanding international motion picture
El lugar de la otra (Netflix)
Emilia Pérez (Netflix)
Memoir of a Snail (IFC Films)
The Seed of the Sacred Fig (NEON)
The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi (ArtMattan Films)
Outstanding breakthrough performance in a motion picture
Brandon Wilson — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Clarence Maclin — Sing Sing (A24)
Danielle Deadwyler — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Ebony Obsidian — The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Ryan Destiny — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding ensemble cast in a motion picture
Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding animated motion picture
Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Kung Fu Panda 4 (DreamWorks Animation)
Moana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Piece by Piece (Focus Features)
The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Outstanding character voice–over performance – motion picture
Aaron Pierre — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Anika Noni Rose — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Ayo Edebiri — Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Blue Ivy Carter — Mufasa: The Lion King (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Lupita Nyong’o — The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Outstanding short form (live action)
Chocolate with Sprinkles (AFI)
Definitely Not a Monster
If They Took Us Back
My Brother & Me (MeowBark Films)
Superman Doesn’t Steal
Outstanding short form (animated)
if(fy) (OTB/The Hidden Hand Studios)
Nate & John (Unity Animation Project, LLC)
Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz “Jackie Robinson” (Exhibit Treal Studios)
Self (Pixar Animation Studios)
Walk in the Light (419 Studios)
Outstanding breakthrough creative (motion picture)
David Fortune — Color Book (Tribeca Studios)
Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Titus Kaphar — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Zoë Kravitz — Blink Twice (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding youth performance in a motion picture
Anthony B. Jenkins — The Deliverance (Netflix)
Blake Cameron James — We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)
Percy Daggs IV — Never Let Go (Lionsgate)
Jeremiah Daniels — Color Book (Tribeca Studios)
Skylar Aleece Smith — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Outstanding cinematography in a motion picture
Andrés Arochi — Longlegs (NEON)
Jomo Fray — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Justin Derry — She Taught Love (Andscape)
Lachlan Milne — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
Rob Hardy — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
Outstanding comedy series
Abbott Elementary (ABC)
How to Die Alone (Hulu)
Poppa’s House (CBS)
The Neighborhood (CBS)
The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding actor in a comedy series
Cedric The Entertainer — The Neighborhood (CBS)
Damon Wayans — Poppa’s House (CBS)
David Alan Grier — St. Denis Medical (NBC)
Delroy Lindo — UnPrisoned (Hulu)
Mike Epps — The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding actress in a comedy series
Ayo Edebiri — The Bear (FX/Hulu)
Kerry Washington — UnPrisoned (Hulu)
Natasha Rothwell — How to Die Alone (Hulu)
Quinta Brunson — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Tichina Arnold — The Neighborhood (CBS)
Outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series
Damon Wayans Jr. — Poppa’s House (CBS)
Giancarlo Esposito — The Gentlemen (Netflix)
Kenan Thompson — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Tyler James Williams — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
William Stanford Davis — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series
Danielle Pinnock — Ghosts (CBS)
Ego Nwodim — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Janelle James — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Sheryl Lee Ralph — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Wanda Sykes — The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding drama series
9-1-1 (ABC)
Bel-Air (Peacock)
Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Found (NBC)
Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
Outstanding actor in a drama series
Aldis Hodge — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Donald Glover — Mr. & Mrs. Smith (Amazon Prime Video)
Harold Perrineau — FROM (MGM+)
Jabari Banks — Bel-Air (Peacock)
Michael Rainey Jr. — Power Book II: Ghost (Starz)
Outstanding actress in a drama series
Angela Bassett — 9-1-1 (ABC)
Emayatzy Corinealdi — Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
Queen Latifah — The Equalizer (CBS)
Shanola Hampton — Found (NBC)
Zoe Saldaña — Lioness (Paramount+)
Outstanding supporting actor in a drama series
Adrian Holmes — Bel-Air (Netflix)
Cliff “Method Man” Smith — Power Book II: Ghost (Starz)
Isaiah Mustafa — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Jacob Latimore — The Chi (Paramount+)
Morris Chestnut — Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
Outstanding supporting actress in a drama series
Adjoa Andoh — Bridgerton (Netflix)
Coco Jones — Bel-Air (Peacock)
Golda Rosheuvel — Bridgerton (Netflix)
Lorraine Toussaint — The Equalizer (CBS)
Lynn Whitfield — The Chi (Paramount+)
Outstanding limited television (series, special or movie)
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Griselda (Netflix)
Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
The Madness (Netflix)
Outstanding actor in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Aaron Pierre — Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
Colman Domingo — The Madness (Netflix)
Kelvin Harrison Jr. — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Kevin Hart — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Laurence Fishburne — Clipped (FX/Hulu)
Outstanding actress in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Naturi Naughton — Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie (Lifetime)
Sanaa Lathan — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Sofía Vergara — Griselda (Netflix)
Uzo Aduba — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Outstanding supporting actor in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Don Cheadle — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Luke James — Them: The Scare (Amazon Prime Video)
Ron Cephas Jones — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Samuel L. Jackson — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Terrence Howard — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Outstanding supporting actress in a limited television (series, special or movie)
Brandy Norwood — Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
Jayme Lawson — Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
Loretta Devine — Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love (Lifetime)
Sanaa Lathan — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
Taraji P. Henson — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
Outstanding news/information (series or special)
Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
Laura Coates Live (CNN)
NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
The ReidOut (MSNBC)
Outstanding talk series
Hart to Heart (Peacock)
Sherri (Syndicated)
Tamron Hall Show (Syndicated)
The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)
The Shop Season 7 (YouTube)
Outstanding reality program, reality competition or game show (series)
Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
Password (NBC)
Rhythm + Flow (Netflix)
The Real Housewives of Potomac (Bravo)
Tia Mowry: My Next Act (WeTV)
Outstanding variety show (series or special)
BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
Deon Cole: Ok, Mister (Netflix)
Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… (Netflix)
Katt Williams: Woke Foke (Netflix)
Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Outstanding children’s program
Craig of the Creek (Cartoon Network)
Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
Sesame Street (MAX)
Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin (Apple TV+)
Outstanding performance by a youth (series, special, television movie or limited–series)
Caleb Elijah — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
Graceyn Hollingsworth — Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
Leah Sava Jeffries — Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Disney+)
Melody Hurd — Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
TJ Mixson — The Madness (Netflix)
Outstanding host in a talk or news/information (series or special) – individual or ensemble
Abby Phillip — NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
Henry Louis Gates Jr. — Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
Jennifer Hudson — The Jennifer Hudson (Syndicated)
Joy Reid — The Reidout (MSNBC)
Sherri Shepherd — Sherri (Syndicated)
Outstanding host in a reality/reality competition, game show or variety (series or special) – individual or ensemble
Alfonso Ribeiro — Dancing With the Stars (ABC)
Keke Palmer — Password (NBC)
Nick Cannon — The Masked Singer (FOX)
Steve Harvey — Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
Taraji P. Henson — BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
Outstanding guest performance
Ayo Edebiri — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Cree Summer — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Keegan-Michael Key — Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Marlon Wayans — Bel-Air (Peacock)
Maya Rudolph — Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Outstanding animated series
Disney Jr.’s Ariel (Disney Jr.)
Everybody Still Hates Chris (Comedy Central)
Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
Iwájú (Disney+)
Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney Channel)
Outstanding character voice-over performance (television)
Angela Bassett — Orion and the Dark (Netflix)
Cree Summer — Rugrats (Nickelodeon)
Cree Summer — The Legend of Vox Machina (Amazon Prime Video)
Dawnn Lewis — Star Trek: Lower Decks (Paramount+)
Keke Palmer — The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy (Amazon Prime Video)
Outstanding short form series or special – reality/nonfiction /documentary
In the Margins (PBS)
NCAA Basketball on CBS Sports (CBS)
Roots of Resistance (PBS)
SC Featured (ESPN)
The Prince of Death Row Records (YouTube TV)
Outstanding breakthrough creative (television)
Ayo Edebiri — The Bear (FX/Hulu)
Diarra Kilpatrick — Diarra From Detroit (BET+)
Maurice Williams — The Madness (Netflix)
Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
Vince Staples — The Vince Staples Show (Netflix)
Outstanding documentary (film)
Daughters (Netflix)
Frida (Amazon MGM Studios)
King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones (Freestyle Digital Media)
Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)
Outstanding documentary (television)
Black Barbie: A Documentary (Netflix)
Black Twitter: A People’s History (Hulu)
Gospel (PBS)
Simone Biles Rising (Netflix)
Sprint (Netflix)
Outstanding short form documentary (film)
Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps (American Masters and Firelight Media)
Danielle Scott: Ancestral Call (American Masters and Firelight Media)
How to Sue the Klan
Judging Juries
Silent Killer (Kaila Love Jones Films)