Dave Chappelle is an award-winning American comedian, actor, screenwriter, and producer who stands as one of the most influential entertainers of his generation. Internationally recognized for his trademark wit, fearless social commentary, and no-holds-barred approach, he deliberately steps over society’s red lines and builds his sharpest material from the other side. His groundbreaking achievements in- clude creating the best-selling TV show in DVD history with ‘Chappelle’s Show,’ winning multiple Emmy and Grammy awards for his stand-up specials, and setting records with his unprecedented runs at Radio City Music Hall.
Born into a family of educators in Washington, D.C., Chappelle began his comedy career at age 14. After early success in film and television, he created the ground- breaking “Chappelle’s Show” (2003-2006). In a move that shocked the industry, he walked away from a $50 million deal at the height of the show’s success, a decision later viewed as a principled stand for creative integrity.
His recent accomplishments include five Primetime Emmy Awards, six Grammy Awards, and six acclaimed Netflix specials. He received the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in October 2019 and the 2025 NAACP Pres- ident’s Award. Through it all, Chappelle has maintained his distinctive voice and unflinching approach to comedy, proving that success can come without compro- mise. His continued residence in Yellow Springs, Ohio, far from the entertainment industry’s centers of power, reflects the independence that has defined his career.
NOMINEES ANNOUNCED FOR THE “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS” AIRING LIVE FROM THE PASADENA CIVIC AUDITORIUM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND AT 8 PM ET/ 8 PT ON BET AND CBS
Today, NAACP announced the full list of “56th NAACP Image Awards” nominees, with Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart, and Shannon Sharpe nominated for Entertainer of the Year. The winners will be revealed Friday, February 21, 2025 at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Ceremonies on naacpimageawards.net and during the two-hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, February 22, 2025 from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, at 8 PM ET/ 8 PM PT on BET and CBS. This year’s theme is, “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.”
The Piano Lesson leads in motion picture categories with 14 nods followed by The Book of Clarence with six nominations. Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist leads across the television categories with nine nominations. Netflix also leads with an impressive 64 nominations.
Ayo Edebiri is leading the television and streaming categories with four nomina- tions – three for her role in The Bear and one for Saturday Night Live. Keke Palmer earned four total nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, recognition for her role in Password, her performance in The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy, and her podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer.
GloRilla received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nominations followed closely by Doechii, Kendrick Lamar and Usher, earning four nods respectively. RCA Records received an impressive 11 nominations, the most across record labels. Penguin Random House leads nominations across literary categories with four nominations, followed by HarperCollins Amistad and William Morrow tied with three nominations.
Nominations were announced today live on CBS Mornings by singer and actress Chloe Bailey and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and on YouTube by actress Novi Brown and musician and star of Grownish Trevor Jackson. “We look forward to celebrating the brilliance of Black talent and creativity whose stories shape culture, ignite change, and inspire generations,” said Derrick John- son, President and CEO of the NAACP.
Through film, music, literature, and more, their voices weave a rich tapestry that honors our heritage, celebrates our identity, and proves that storytelling is a powerful force for driving true progress.”
“The NAACP Image Awards stand as a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and impact of Black creatives, innovators, and changemakers,” said Scott Mills, Presi- dent and CEO of BET Media Group. “BET is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the NAACP to celebrate Black excellence in all forms. Together, we shine a light on the stories, voices, and artistry that shape culture and drive and progress.”
One of the most iconic annual celebrations of Black excellence, the NAACP Im- age Awards draws the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood. Previous years’ attendees and winners include Ava DuVernay, Gabrielle Union, Dwayne Wade, Courtney B. Vance, Sherri Shepherd, Colman Domingo, Mike Epps, Keke Palmer, Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia, Danielle Brooks, Usher, Tyler Perry, Angela Bassett, Damson Idris, Michelle ButeauVictoria Monét, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E. Carter, Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Nia Long, Keith David, Jennifer Hudson, Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown, Erica Campbell, Chris Brown, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Zendaya, Yara Shahidi, Issa Rae, Janelle Monáe, Tracee Ellis Ross, Serena Williams, Kerry Washington, Method Man, Dominique Thorne, Austin Scott, Tyler James Williams, Kyla Pratt, Jabari Banks, and many more.
OUTSTANDING SOCIAL MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Kai Cenat Keith Lee RaeShanda Lias
Shirley Raines Tony Baker
MOTION PICTURE CATEGORIES
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) ÏDenzel 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) ÏDanielle 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) ÏKung Fu Panda 4 DreamWorks Animation) ÏMoana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures) ÏPiece by Piece (Focus Features)
The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Outstanding Character Voice–Over Performance – Motion Picture ÏAaron Pierre — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures) ÏAnika Noni Rose — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures) ÏAyo Edebiri — “Inside Out 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures) ÏBlue Ivy Carter — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures) ÏLupita Nyong’o — “The Wild Robot” (DreamWorks Animation) Outstanding Short Form (Live Action) ÏChocolate with Sprinkles (AFI) ÏDefinitely Not a Monster ÏIf They Took Us Back ÏMy Brother & Me (MeowBark Films) ÏSuperman Doesn’t Steal
Outstanding Short Form (Animated)
(Ïffy) (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) Jeremiah Daniels — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios) Percy Daggs IV — “Never Let Go” (Lionsgate) Skylar Aleece Smith — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
Rob Hardy — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)
TELEVISION + STREAMING CATEGORIES
Outstanding Comedy Series ÏAbbott Elementary (ABC) ÏHow to Die Alone (Hulu) ÏPoppa’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
9-1-1A(BC) 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)
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/Search- light Pictures) ÏNaturi Naughton — “Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie” (Lifetime)
Sanaa Lathan — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pic- tures) Sofía Vergara — “Griselda” (Netflix) Uzo Aduba — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pic- tures)
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 Limit- ed–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 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 Gospel/Christian Album H“ eart of a Human” — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration) ÏL“ive Breathe Fight” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group) ÏS“till Karen” — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel) ÏS“unny Days” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records) ÏT“he Maverick Way Reimagined” — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records) Outstanding International Song ÏC“ lose” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings) ÏH“ mmm” — Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment) ÏJ“ump” — Tyla (Epic Records) ÏL“ove Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93) ÏP“iece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music Inter- national/Starboy Entertainment) Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album ÏA“lright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music) ÏA“lter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Enter- tainment) ÏB“oy Bye” — Chlöe (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC) ÏN“ ot Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records) ÏY“eah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records) Outstanding Album ÏA“lligator Bites Never Heal” — Doechii (Epic Records) ÏC“ ape Town to Cairo” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE) ÏC“ oming Home” — USHER (mega/gamma.) ÏC“ owboy Carter” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC) ÏG“lorious”— GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records) Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album ÏB“ob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack)” (Tuff Gong/Island Records) ÏG“enius:MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series)”(Hollywood Records) ÏR“ easonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack)” (Hollywood Records) ÏT“he Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Geneva Club under ex-
clusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC) ÏW“ icked: The Soundtrack” (Republic Records)
Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song ÏC“ hurch Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records) ÏD“ o It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel) ÏG“od Problems (Not By Power)”— (Tribl Records) ÏI“Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group) ÏW“ orking for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
Outstanding Jazz Album ÏC“ reole Orchestra” — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music) ÏE“pic Cool” — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music) ÏJ“avon & Nikki Go to the Movies” — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jack- son Records) ÏO“nTheir Shoulders:An OrganTribute”— MatthewWhitaker (MOCAT Records) ÏP“ortrait” — Samara Joy (Verve Records)
Outstanding Soul/R&B Song Ï “16CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC) ÏH“ ere We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings) ÏI“Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE) ÏR“ esiduals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment) ÏS“aturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment) Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song ÏM“ amushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group) ÏM“ urdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings) ÏN“ oid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records) ÏN“ ot Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records) ÏY“eah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional) ÏAdam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE) ÏLeela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC) ÏMaverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not By Power)” (Tribl Records) ÏMuni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings) ÏSounds 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) ÏUSHER & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.) ÏVictoria Monét feat. USHER — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music) ÏWizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
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)
DOCUMENTARY CATEGORIES 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) Ï
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)
WRITING CATEGORIES Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series Ashley Nicole Black — Shrinking – “Changing Patterns” (Apple TV+) Brittani Nichols — Abbott Elementary – “Breakup” (ABC) Crystal Jenkins — No Good Deed – “Letters of Intent” (Netflix) Diarra Kilpatrick — Diarra From Detroit – “Chasing Ghosts” (BET+) Jordan Temple — Abbott Elementary – “Smoking” (ABC)
Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series Azia Squire — Bridgerton – “Tick Tock” (Netflix) Ben Watkins — Cross – “Hero Complex” (Amazon Prime Video) Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover — Mr. & Mrs. Smith –
Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special Brandon Espy, Carl Reid — Mr. Crocket (Hulu) Bree West, Chazitear — A Wesley South African Christmas (BET+) Juel Taylor, Tony Rettenmaier, Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+) ÏRudy Mancuso, Dan Lagana — Música (Amazon Prime Video) Tina Mabry, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Cee Marcellus — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture Barry Jenkins — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios) RaMell Ross, Joslyn Barnes — Nikel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films) Titus Kaphar — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions) Virgil Williams, Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
DIRECTING CATEGORIES Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series Ayo Edebiri — The Bear – “Napkins” (FX/Hulu) Bentley Kyle Evans — Mind Your Business – “The Reunion” (Bounce TV) Robbie Countryman — The Upshaws – “Ain’t Broke” (Netflix) Tiffany Johnson — How to Die Alone – “Trust No One” (Hulu) William Smith — The Vince Staples Show – “Brown Family” (Netflix) Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series Carl Franklin — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Blame It on the Rain” (Netflix) Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Protect Us” (National Geographic)
Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Who We Are” (National Geographic)
ÏParis Barclay — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” (Netflix) Rapman — Supacell – “Supacell” (Netflix)
Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie, Documentary, or Special Kelley Kali — Kemba (BET+) Marcelo Gama — BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group) Shanta Fripp — Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group) Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free (BET+) Tina Mabry — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture Jeymes Samuel — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix) RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios) Reinaldo Marcus Green — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures) Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films)
Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture) Bao Nguyen — The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix) Dawn Porter — Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films) Deborah Riley Draper — James Brown: Say It Loud (A&E)
Jason Pollard, Sam Pollard — Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys (A&E) ÏNneka Onuorah — Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words (Amazon Prime Video)
LITERARY CATEGORIES Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction
A Love Song for Ricki Wilde — Tia Williams (Grand Central Publishing – Hachette Book Group) Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers) Neighbors and Other Stories — Diane Oliver, Tayari Jones (Foreword) (Grove At- lantic)
One of Us Knows: A Thriller — Alyssa Cole (William Morrow – HarperCollins Pub- lishers) What You Leave Behind — Wanda M. Morris (William Morrow – HarperCollins Pub- lishers)
Outstanding Literary Work – Nonfiction A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune — Noliwe Rooks (Penguin Press – Penguin Books) Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest — Fawn Weaver (Melch- er Media Inc.) Picturing Black History: Photographs and Stories that Changed the World — Daniela Edmeier, Damarius Johnson, Nicholas B. Breyfogle and Steven Conn (Abrams Books – Harry N. Abrams) The 1619 Project: A Visual Experience — Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group) The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Trans- formed America — Larry Tye (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers) Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author A Kind of Madness — Uche Okonkwo (Tin House Books) AfroCentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture — Shirley Neal (HarperCollins Amistad) Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers) Masquerade — O.O. Sangoyomi (Forge Books – Tor Publishing Group) Swift River — Essie Chambers (Simon & Schuster)
Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me — Whoopi Goldberg (Blackstone Publishing) By the Time You Read This: The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile and Mental Ill- ness Her Story in Her Own Words — Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins (Forefront Books) Do It Anyway: Don’t Give Up Before It Gets Good — Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Sarah Jakes Roberts (Foreword) (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House) Lovely One: A Memoir — Ketanji Brown Jackson (Random House) Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America — Joy-Ann Reid (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers) Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional Black Joy Playbook: 30 Days of Intentionally Reclaiming Your Delight — Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggets (Ink & Willow – Penguin Random House) I Did a New Thing: 30 Days to Living Free (A Feeding the Soul Book) — Tabitha
Brown (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers) Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself: A Guide to Closing the Space Between Us — Chanté Griffin (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House) Radical Self-Care: Rituals for Inner Resilience — Rebecca Moore (Author), Am- berlee Green (Illustrator) (The Quarto Group/Leaping Hare Press) Wash Day: Passing on the Legacy, Rituals, and Love of Natural Hair — Tomesha Faxio (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group) Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry Bluff: Poems — Danez Smith (Graywolf Press) Good Dress — Brittany Rogers (Tin House Books) Load in Nine Times: Poems — Frank X Walker (Liveright Publishing – W.W. Norton & Company) Song of My Softening — Omotara James (Alice James Books) This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets — Kwame Alexan- der (Little, Brown and Company) Outstanding Literary Work – Children All I Need to Be — Rachel Ricketts (Author), Tiffany Rose (Illustrator) with Luana Horry (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) Cicely Tyson — Renée Watson (Author), Sherry Shine (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers) Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair — Carole Boston Weatherford (Au- thor), Ekua Holmes (Illustrator) (Candlewick Press) MÏyHairIsaBook—MaishaOso(Author),LondonLadd(Illustrator)(HarperCollins Publishers) You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book — Taraji P. Henson (Author), Paul Kellam (Illustrator) (Zonderkidz – HarperCollins)
Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens American Wings: Chicago’s Pioneering Black Aviators and the Race for Equality in the Sky — Sherri L. Smith and Elizabeth Wein (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers) Barracoon Adapted for Young Readers The Story of the Last Black Cargo — Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi (Adapted by), Jazzmen Lee-Johnson (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers) Black Star: The Door of No Return — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers) Brushed Between Cultures: A YA Coming of Age Novel Set in Brooklyn, New York — Samarra St. Hilaire (Samarra St. Hilaire) Clutch Time: A Shot Clock Novel (Shot Clock, 2) — Caron Butler and Justin A. Reynolds (HarperCollins Publishers)
Outstanding Graphic Novel Big Jim and the White Boy: An American Classic Reimagined — David F. Walker and Marcus Kwame Anderson (Ten Speed Graphic – Penguin Random House)
Black Defender: The Awakening — Dr. David Washington, Mr. Zhengis Tasbolatov (Illustrator), Mr. Billy Blanks (Foreword) (Washington Comix) Gamerville — Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley – HarperCollins Publishers)
Ghost Roast — Shawneé Gibbs, Shawnelle Gibbs, Emily Cannon (Illustrator) (Versify – HarperCollins Publishers) Punk Rock Karaoke — Bianca Xunise (Viking Books for Young Readers)
PODCAST CATEGORIES
Outstanding News and Information Podcast #SundayCivics (LJW Community Strategies) After the Uprising (iHeartPodcasts, Double Asterisk) Into America: Uncounted Millions (MSNBC) Native Land Pod (iHeartPodcasts, Reasoned Choice Media)
The Assignment with Audie Cornish (CNN Audio)
Outstanding Lifestyle/Self–Help Podcast Balanced Black Girl (Dear Media) Is This Going to Cause An Argument (Seven14Seven Media) The R Spot with Iyanla (Shondaland) Therapy for Black Girls (iHeartPodcasts) We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)
Outstanding Society and Culture Podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer (Wondery) Club Shay Shay (Shay Shay Media & The Volume) Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay (The Ringer) We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions) What Now? with Trevor Noah (Spotify Studios in partnership with Day Zero Pro- ductions and Fulwell 73) Outstanding Sports, Arts and Entertainment Podcast Naked Sports with Cari Champion (The Black Effect Podcast Network) Nightcap (Shay Shay Media & The Volume) Questlove Supreme (iHeartPodcasts) R&B Money Podcast (R&B Money) Two Funny Mamas (Mocha Podcasts Network)
Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form About the Journey (Marriott Bonvoy, AT WILL MEDIA & mntra) Squeezed with Yvette Nicole Brown (Lemonda Media) Stranded (Broadway Video) The Wonder of Stevie (Audible, Higher Ground and Pineapple Street Studios)
When We Win with Maya Rupert (Lemonada Media)
COSTUME DESIGN, MAKE–UP & HAIRSTYLING CATEGORIES
Outstanding Costume Design (Television or Film) Ernesto Martinez — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock) Megan Coates — Shirley (Netflix) Gersha Phillips — The Big Cigar (Apple TV+)
Francine Jamison-Tanchuck — The Piano Lesson (Netflix) ÏPaul Tazewell — Wicked (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding Make-up (Television or Film) ÏCarol Rasheed — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock) ÏDebi Young — Shirley (Netflix) Rebecca Lee — ShMgun (Netflix) Matiki Anoff — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures) Para Malden — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
Outstanding Hairstyling (Television or Film) Terry Hunt — Bel-Air (Peacock) Lawrence Davis — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock) Nakoya Yancey — Shirley (Netflix) Brian Badie — The Penguin (HBO/Max) Andrea Mona Bowman — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
STUNT CATEGORY
Outstanding Stunt Ensemble (TV or Film) ÏCross (Amazon Prime Video) Grotesquerie (FX/Hulu) Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
Red One (Amazon MGM Studios) ÏThem: The Scare (Amazon Prime Video)
### About NAACP The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race–based discrimination.
That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are com- mitted to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP–LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely sepa- rate entity.
ABOUT BET Media Group: The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA), is the world’s largest media company dedicated to entertaining, engaging, and empow- ering the Black community and championing Black culture. Connecting Black audi- ences through a portfolio of brands including BET, BET+, BET Gospel, BET HER, BET International, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET Studios, and VH1, the BET Media Group is a thriving media ecosystem of leading interconnected platforms across cable TV, streaming, digital, studios, live events and international.
Kamala Harris Makes History: A Landmark Presidential Nomination
In a historic turn of events, Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic Party’s nominee for President of the United States, marking a groundbreaking moment in American politics. Harris, the first Black woman and first South Asian woman to be nominated for president by a major U.S. political party, officially secured her nomination on August 5, 2024, following a formal roll call vote of Democratic National Committee delegates.
This development followed President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw his bid for reelection in July 2024, endorsing Harris as his successor. The move ignited a 107-day general election campaign—the shortest in modern American history—as Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.
A Vision for the Future
Throughout her campaign, Harris focused on a platform centered on fundamental freedoms and economic opportunity. She championed issues such as women’s reproductive rights, affordable housing, and the rising cost of living, promising to create a path for all Americans to climb the ladder of economic stability. Despite a passionate campaign, Harris and Walz ultimately lost the election to the Republican ticket of Donald Trump and JD Vance.
A Career of Firsts
Harris’ journey to this historic moment is marked by decades of public service. In 2017, she was sworn into the U.S. Senate, where she advocated for policies addressing hunger, rent relief, maternal healthcare, small business growth, infrastructure revitalization, and climate change. As a senator, she also played a key role in questioning Supreme Court nominees and worked on bipartisan legislation to enhance election security.
Her political career began much earlier, however. In 2010, Harris was elected Attorney General of California, overseeing the largest state justice department in the nation. During her tenure, she secured a $20 billion settlement for Californians affected by the foreclosure crisis and a $1.1 billion settlement for students and veterans deceived by a for-profit education company. She also fought against transnational gangs, defended the Affordable Care Act, and enforced environmental protection laws.
Before serving as Attorney General, Harris was the District Attorney of San Francisco, where she was a national leader in LGBTQ+ rights, officiating some of the first same-sex weddings. She also established the city’s first environmental justice unit and launched an innovative program for first-time drug offenders that the U.S. Department of Justice later recognized as a national model for law enforcement.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Leadership
Born in Oakland, California, Harris was raised by her mother, Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a breast cancer scientist who immigrated to the U.S. from India at the age of 19. Her parents were actively involved in the civil rights movement, instilling in her a deep commitment to justice and equality from an early age. Harris attended Howard University before earning her law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of Law.
In 2014, she married lawyer Douglas Emhoff, embracing a blended family that includes her stepchildren, Ella and Cole. Throughout her career, Harris has remained steadfast in her mother’s advice:
As she continues her journey in public service, Kamala Harris’ legacy remains one of resilience, progress, and breaking barriers for future generations.
“Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you are not the last.”
The Wayans Family Hall of Fame Inductees for the 56th NAACP Image Awards
The Wayans Dynasty: Comedy, Culture, and an Unstoppable Legacy
Few families have shaped comedy and entertainment quite like the Wayans. For decades, this powerhouse dynasty has revolutionized film, television, and stand-up, breaking barriers while delivering laughs that transcend generations. At the helm of this movement is Keenen Ivory Wayans, the creative mastermind behind In Living Color, a groundbreaking sketch comedy series that changed the industry forever.
When In Living Color hit the airwaves, it wasn’t just another comedy show—it was a cultural shift. Keenen gave the world an unapologetically diverse and fearless platform, launching the careers of Hollywood legends like Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez, alongside many Wayans family members. At a time when Black talent was often sidelined in mainstream comedy, Keenen took the reins as an actor, comedian, writer, director, and producer, proving that diverse storytelling wasn’t just necessary—it was the future.
Beyond In Living Color, Keenen co-wrote and co-starred in Hollywood Shuffle with Robert Townsend, directed the game-changing parody Scary Movie, and gave us the cult classic I’m Gonna Git You Sucka. His bold, satirical approach not only entertained audiences but also challenged Hollywood’s outdated norms, paving the way for Black creators to thrive both critically and commercially.
The Wayans Family Empire
Keenen may have kicked down the door, but his siblings didn’t hesitate to follow. Damon Wayans Sr. became a comedy icon through Saturday Night Live, Major Payne, and My Wife and Kids, while younger brothers Shawn and Marlon Wayans co-created and starred in The Wayans Bros. and a string of hit films, including Scary Movie, White Chicks, Little Man, and Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood.
The Wayans’ signature blend of satire and slapstick comedy continued with Dance Flick, directed by Damien Dante Wayans, with Keenen, Shawn, Marlon, Craig, and Damien as writers and producers. Kim Wayans left her own mark as an actress, producer, and writer, while the next generation—including Damon Wayans Jr.—has carried the torch with standout roles in Poppa’s House, Shrinking, Happy Endings, New Girl, and Let’s Be Cops.
Expanding Their Reach and Legacy
The Wayans’ influence isn’t just about comedy—it’s about evolution. Marlon Wayans has expanded his repertoire with dramatic roles in Respect and Air, along with his gripping performance as Lou in Bel-Air, which earned him a nomination for Outstanding Guest Performance at the 56th NAACP Image Awards. Meanwhile, Damon Sr. and Damon Jr. are making history as the first father-son duo nominated for their roles in Poppa’s House, with Damon Sr. up for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series and Damon Jr. for Outstanding Supporting Actor.
And the legacy continues.
Keenen, Marlon, and Shawn are now reviving one of their most successful franchises—a Scary Movie reboot, set to hit theaters on June 12, 2026, introducing a new generation to their signature horror-comedy magic. Meanwhile, Marlon is on the road with his WILD CHILD Tour, leading up to his sixth stand-up special, and will next be seen starring in Jordan Peele’s upcoming film, HIM (Monkeypaw Productions), premiering on September 19, 2025.
The Lasting Impact of the Wayans
From sketch comedy to box office hits, the Wayans family has not only entertained the world but redefined the industry on their own terms. Their commitment to fearless, diverse storytelling has paved the way for future generations of Black creators, proving that success in Hollywood isn’t just about talent—it’s about staying true to your vision.
Whether through laughter or thought-provoking performances, the Wayans dynasty isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Their story isn’t just one of success—it’s one of resilience, representation, and a lasting impact on comedy and culture.
And if history has taught us anything, it’s that with the Wayans, the best is always yet to come.
Actress Terri J Vaughn decided to do something different this year to celebrate her 50th birthday. She woke up and after giving praise and thanks through prayer she decided it was time to chop off the hair and refresh for the new day. So who did she call? Her good friend and hair stylist the infamous Derek J and high-tailed it on down to the salon.
TV One’s upcoming new original holiday film, “Dear Santa, I Need a Date.” The film stars Ray J, Reagan Gomez-Preston, Reginae Carter and Anne-Marie Johnson. This film will b directed by NAACP Image Award Recipient Terri J Vaughn.
Developing Story – Follow the Producer’s Channel for Updates
Seems Nicki Minaj is just on the chopping block with everyone this week. Everyone as in 3 people – Joe Budden, Trina the Rockstar and now Rick Ross? It’s been one heck of a week for Nicki Minaj and her barbs. Continue reading Nicki Minaj Black Girl Tragic Week→
Beyond the Pole is a weekly reality series about 5 exotic dancers struggling to see life ‘Beyond the Pole.’ Serial entreprenuer, millionaire network marketer and former exotic dancer Stormy Wellington is brought in to help these ladies see their dreams of leaving the pole is not their future reality. However, several of the girls feel it’s not up to Coach Stormy to save them. They insist they know their exact game plan to leave the life of dancing on the pole and being an exotic dancer. Stormy Wellington begs to differ. Continue reading Beyond the Pole Airs on WeTV Thursdays at 10pm/9C→
Former President Barack Obama remembers Toni Morrison as a national tre the first African American writer to win the Nobel Prize for Literature — has died in New York City. She was admired by many for her worldwide literary acheivements for fiction writing. Continue reading Pulitzer Prize winning author Toni Morrison dies at 88→
Shocking news hit the headlines thirteen days ago that John Singleton had suffered a stroke. I for one was immediately disturbed and distraught until I first heard it was a mild stroke. ( My mother recently suffered a mild stroke as well so I immediately had confidence that he would have a slow but successful recovery. To my dismay days later I first heard John Singleton was now in a coma and his family was having a discrepancy about his estate. Continue reading Beloved Director John Singleton has passed away at 51→
Actress Terri J Vaughn decided to do something different this year to celebrate her 50th birthday. She woke up and after giving praise and thanks through prayer she decided it was time to chop off the hair and refresh for the new day. So who did she call? Her good friend and hair stylist the infamous Derek J and high-tailed it on down to the salon.
Seems Nicki Minaj is just on the chopping block with everyone this week. Everyone as in 3 people – Joe Budden, Trina the Rockstar and now Rick Ross? It’s been one heck of a week for Nicki Minaj and her barbs. 
Shocking news hit the headlines thirteen days ago that John Singleton had suffered a stroke. I for one was immediately disturbed and distraught until I first heard it was a mild stroke. ( My mother recently suffered a mild stroke as well so I immediately had confidence that he would have a slow but successful recovery. To my dismay days later I first heard John Singleton was now in a coma and his family was having a discrepancy about his estate. 
The Producer's Channel 