LOS ANGELES (February 25, 2024) – Today, the NAACP celebrated the stellar achievements of the “55th NAACP Image Awards” nominees across film, television and streaming, music, literature, and podcasts, at its Nominees Brunch at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. Hosted by TBS’ Friday Night Vibes co-hosts Nina Parker and Kevin Fredericks (KevOnStage), the event recognized talented individuals nominated in more than 90 categories. The “55th NAACP Image Awards” will broadcast LIVE on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 8:00 PM (live ET/PT on delay) on BET and CBS from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
The Nominees Brunch kicked off with welcome remarks from NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and Vice Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors Karen Boykin-Towns who congratulated the nominees for their accomplishments. More than 130 nominees graced the stage for a special “55th NAACP Image Awards” class photo and were presented with certificates recognizing their immense talent and overall impact to their respective fields. Guests included Adrian Holmes, Aml Ameen, Carl Anthony Payne II, Choice Skinner, Chris Spencer, Elisha “EJ” Williams, Garcelle Beauvais, Gia Peppers, Glynn Turman, Jabari Banks, Jalyn Hall, Jeremy Piven, Kale Futterman, Keith Powers, LaRoyce Hawkins, Lucky Daye, Mara Brock Akil, Mila Davis-Kent, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Roy Wood Jr., Shoshana Guy, Tre’Vell Anderson, Vic Mensa, William Stanford Davis, and more. Pastor Brenda Palmer delivered an invocation during the afternoon, and gospel artist Pastor Mike Jr. performed his song “Impossible.”
“For over a century, the NAACP has championed the fight for a society that cherishes our culture and acknowledges the invaluable contributions of the Black community,” said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson. “Today, we are honored to stand united in recognizing the transformative power of storytelling. Media shapes our perceptions, so let us embrace the challenge to be louder, to activate change, and to amplify the importance of our community, our culture, and our stories. Together, we matter, and our collective voice reverberates through the halls of history.”
“In celebrating the NAACP’s 115th birthday, we acknowledge that for nearly half its existence, this organization has recognized the vital contributions of the creative community,” said Karen Boykin-Towns, Vice Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors. “Your work matters – it’s a powerful ally to our pursuit of justice and equality. While we fight against false narratives, you craft new stories daily in scripts, songs, and books. Together, our work becomes more accessible and impactful, and we thank you for your commitment to excellence. Congratulations to all, and let’s continue fighting together for a brighter future.”
Co-hosts Kevin Fredericks (KevOnStage) and Nina Parker led a lively gospel karaoke competition where select Image Awards nominees volunteered to perform gospel classics, including Kirk Franklin’s “Melodies from Heaven” and “Hosanna,” Hezekiah Walker’s “Clean Inside” and “How Much We Can Bear,” “I Just Want to Praise You” by Maurette Brown Clark, and “We’re Blessed” by Fred Hammond.
Winners of the “55th NAACP Image Awards” will be revealed via telecast on March 16, 2024 on BET and CBS. NAACP will also recognize winners in non-televised Image Awards categories virtually from March 11-13th on www.naacpimageawards.net, during the Awards Dinner on March 14 and the Fashion Show on March 15th. For all information and the latest news, please follow NAACP Image Awards on Instagram @NAACPImageAwards.