Keke Palmer and Friends Take the Stage: 2025 NAACP Image Awards Highlights!
The 2025 NAACP Image Awards rolled out the red carpet this past Saturday, and boy, did they serve up some serious celebration of Black excellence in film and music! Multi-talented powerhouse Keke Palmer snagged the coveted Entertainer of the Year award, delivering an inspiring and empowering speech that had the crowd buzzing. She reminded everyone that while we’re all asking for our worth (let’s get those coin purses open, Hollywood!), the real riches lie in what we value in ourselves and our culture.
Denzel Washington was in the spotlight too, taking home Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Gladiator II,” proving that he’s not just an icon but still a force to be reckoned with on-screen. Tyler Perry’s “The Six Triple Eight” was one of the night’s big winners, scooping up Outstanding Motion Picture, and Kerry Washington got to shine as Outstanding Actress for her performance in the same film. Talk about sisterhood and solidarity!
But it wasn’t just about the movies—music was well represented, with heavyweights like Beyoncé, Doechii, and Kendrick Lamar all getting recognized for their contributions to the game. And let’s not forget the legendary Wayans family, who are now part of the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame! Keenen, Damon, Marlon, Shawn, Kim, and Damon Jr. were all there, reflecting on their legacy in comedy, which has shaped the entertainment landscape for decades.
Former VP Kamala Harris graced the event with her presence, accepting the prestigious Chairman’s Award. Her speech was a passionate reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights, emphasizing that true power arises from faith and perseverance rather than privilege alone. Talk about serving wisdom while looking fabulous!
All in all, the night was a celebration of talent, resilience, and the unapologetic joy that comes with heritage. With American culture continually shifting, events like this remind us of the deep roots and the fertile ground from which our creativity springs. This year’s NAACP Image Awards was not just an awards ceremony; it was a vibrant celebration of Black art and influence, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll do next!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter
