The highly anticipated 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards is set to illuminate screens nationwide live on February 22, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT from the historic Pasadena Civic Auditorium. This prestigious event, celebrating Black excellence in entertainment, media, and literature, promises to be an unforgettable night filled with star power, culture, and inspiration.
Actor and comedian Deon Cole will take the stage as host for the very first time (Queen Latifah hosted for the past two years). Best known for his scene-stealing roles in Black-ish and Grown-ish, Cole’s signature wit will set the tone for an evening honoring the best and brightest in Black artistry.
A Night of Honors and History
The NAACP Image Awards will spotlight the creative and cultural contributions of people of color in film, television, music, and literature. This year, the ceremony will feature a Hall of Fame induction for one of the most influential families in entertainment —the Wayans family.
From Keenen Ivory Wayans paving the way for sketch comedy with the groundbreaking 1990s TV series In Living Color to Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon, Shawn, Kim, and Damon Wayans Jr., this multi-generational entertainment dynasty has shaped comedy, film, and television with unforgettable classics like Scary Movie, White Chicks, A Low Down Dirty Shame, Don’t Be A Menace, and The Wayans Bros. Their groundbreaking contributions will be forever enshrined in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.
Another powerful moment of the night will be the presentation of the Chairman’s Award to former Vice President Kamala Harris. A trailblazer in American politics, Harris made history as the first woman and first person of color to hold the office of Vice President of the United States. The award recognizes her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and public service.
Comedy icon Dave Chappelle will be celebrated at the 56th NAACP Image Awards, not just for his groundbreaking humor, but for his unparalleled impact on culture and social discourse. The Emmy and Grammy-winning comedian will be honored with the prestigious President’s Award, recognizing his special achievement and distinguished public service.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson praised Chappelle for his bold storytelling and ability to call out societal ills the way he sees it, “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. 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.”
Star-Studded Performances & Must-See Moments
This year’s show will be a 2.5-hour live broadcast on BET and CBS. Although the performances are being kept under wraps, the ceremony promises electrifying ones, heartfelt tributes, and major wins in categories spanning motion pictures, television, music, and literature.
And the Nominees Are…
Netflix’s The Piano Lesson is taking center stage, leading the way with a whopping 14 nominations.
TriStar’s The Book of Clarence follows closely with an impressive six nominations, while Peacock’s Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist dominates the television categories with nine nods.
Who will take home the coveted trophies? Stay locked in for nominee highlights, major wins, and unforgettable moments as we count down to the live broadcast on February 22, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS.
For the full list of nominees and event updates, visit NAACPImageAwards.net.
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