The 56th NAACP Image Awards took place on February 22, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Los Angeles, celebrating outstanding achievements in film, television, music, and literature by people of color. The event, hosted by actor-comedian Deon Cole, honored diverse talent and contributions to the arts and public service. Fashion was also a highlight of the evening.
Major Award Winners
Entertainer of the Year: Keke Palmer received the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award for her performance in the 2025 film “One of Them Days,” featuring SZA and Katt Williams. In her acceptance speech, Palmer emphasized the importance of celebrating and uplifting each other.
Outstanding Motion Picture: “The Six Triple Eight,” directed by Tyler Perry, was honored as the Outstanding Motion Picture. The film’s lead actress, Kerry Washington, also won Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her portrayal in the same film.
Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture: Martin Lawrence received this accolade for his role in “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.”
Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series: Queen Latifah was recognized for her performance in “The Equalizer.”
Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series: Michael Rainey Jr. won for his role in “Power Book II: Ghost.”
Special Honors
Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BETPASADENA, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 22: (L-R) Craig Wayans, Chaunté Wayans, Kim Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Damon Wayans, Damon Wayans Jr., and Damien Dante Wayans accept the NAACP Awards Hall of Fame award from David Alan Grier onstage during the 56th NAACP Image Awards at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22, 2025 in Pasadena, California.Chairman’s Award: Former Vice President Kamala Harris was honored with the Chairman’s Award for her public service efforts. In her speech, Harris highlighted the NAACP’s history and addressed current political and environmental challenges, urging Americans to organize, mobilize, educate, and advocate.
President’s Award: Comedian Dave Chappelle received the President’s Award. During his acceptance, Chappelle emphasized the significance of receiving an award from an institution representing people of color and acknowledged the NAACP’s historical efforts in combating negative depictions of African Americans.
Hall of Fame Induction: The Wayans family was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame for their contributions to comedy and entertainment. Damon Wayans expressed that their parents would be very proud of this achievement.
Musical Achievements
Beyoncé, Doechii, and Kendrick Lamar were among the musical artists recognized for their contributions.
Fashion Highlights
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images Emayatzy Corinealdi, Kerry Washington, and Ebony Obsidian attend the 56th NAACP Image Awards at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22, 2025 in Pasadena, California.The red carpet showcased diverse and elegant fashion, with appearances by Cynthia Erivo in a Dolce & Gabbana suit, Kamala Harris in a custom LaQuan Smith ensemble, and Kerry Washington in a floral-appliqué Prada outfit.
The 2025 NAACP Image Awards not only celebrated artistic excellence but also highlighted significant contributions to public service and community leadership, reinforcing the importance of representation and recognition in the arts and beyond.
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