NAACP Image Awards 2025: Winners & Nominees – Full List

The 56th NAACP Image Awards, presented on February 22, 2025, celebrated outstanding achievements by people of color in film, television, music, and literature. While Keke Palmer took home the coveted Entertainer of the Year award, the night also highlighted a diverse range of talent across numerous categories, signaling a continued commitment to representation within the entertainment industry.

Comedy Reigns Supreme

The competition in the comedy series categories was particularly fierce. Abbott Elementary (ABC) emerged victorious as Outstanding Comedy Series, continuing its streak of critical acclaim. The show, known for its heartwarming portrayal of educators in a Philadelphia public school, beat out strong contenders including Harlem (Prime Video), Survival of the Thickest (Netflix), The Residence (Netflix), and The Upshaws (Netflix).

Ayo Edebiri’s performance in The Bear (FX/Hulu) earned her the award for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series, further solidifying her status as a rising star. The Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series award went to Mike Epps for his work on The Upshaws (Netflix), while William Stanford Davis was recognized as Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in Abbott Elementary (ABC). Janelle James also took home an award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her performance in Abbott Elementary.

Dramatic Performances Honored

On the drama side, Bel-Air (Peacock) was crowned Outstanding Drama Series. The reimagining of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning recognition for its compelling storytelling and performances. Jabari Banks, the lead in Bel-Air, was also honored with the award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. Angela Bassett received the award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her role in 9-1-1 (ABC).

Supporting performances in the drama category were also celebrated. Adrian Holmes was named Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his work in Bel-Air (Peacock), and Aisha Hinds took home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in 9-1-1 (ABC).

Special Awards and Recognition

Beyond the competitive categories, the NAACP Image Awards also recognized individuals for their significant contributions to culture and society. Dave Chappelle was presented with the President’s Award, acknowledging his impact as a comedic voice. Kamala Harris received the Chairman’s Award, recognizing her leadership and advocacy. Alondra Nelson was honored with the Digital Civil Rights Award, and the Wayans family received the Founder’s Award, while Essence Communications Inc. Was given the Vanguard Award.

Beyond Television: Limited Series and More

The awards extended to limited series and specials, with The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show starring Kendrick Lamar (FOX) winning Outstanding Short Form Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction/Documentary. Taraji P. Henson was recognized as Outstanding Actress in a Limited Television Series, Special, or Movie for her performance in Straw (Netflix). Tyler Lepley won Outstanding Actor in a Limited Television Series, Special, or Movie for his role in Ruth & Boaz (Netflix).

The Outstanding News/Information Series or Special award went to CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN), while Sherri (Syndicated) was named Outstanding Talk Series. Celebrity Family Feud (ABC) took home the award for Outstanding Reality Program/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety Series.

A Platform for Visibility

The NAACP Image Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for celebrating the achievements of Black artists and storytellers. The awards not only recognize excellence but also highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion within the entertainment industry. The ceremony, simulcast on BET and CBS, BET Her, VH1, MTV, MTV2, Pop, TV Land, Logo, Comedy Central, Smithsonian, and streamed on the Image Awards website, reached a broad audience, amplifying the voices and stories of those honored.

The 56th NAACP Image Awards underscored a year of compelling content and remarkable talent, setting the stage for continued progress and representation in the years to come. The event’s success demonstrates the enduring power of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of people of color to the world of entertainment.