It’s the NAACP Image Awards. Of course, Black Hollywood showed up and showed out!
The occasion was more than just a night of glitz and glamour; it was a celebration of Black excellence and a recognition of the incredible contributions of Black artists and creators. From powerful calls for equality to historic wins, the 55th NAACP Image Awards was a showcase of everything we loved and celebrated in 2023–and we do mean everything.
The night was filled with unforgettable moments that honored the best in Black entertainment. The Color Purple stole the show, winning an astounding 11 awards, including Outstanding Motion Picture and Outstanding Ensemble Cast, while Colman Domingo and Fantasia Barrino took home top honors for their performances. Ava DuVernay was recognized for her exceptional directing in the critically acclaimed Origin, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse swung in for Outstanding Animated Motion Picture. High on the Hog captivated audiences and secured the title of Outstanding Documentary in Television, while Michelle Buteau’s colorful creativity in Survival of the Thickest earned her well-deserved recognition. The awards also highlighted rising talent, with Leah Sava Jeffries winning Outstanding Performance by a Youth for Disney Plus’ Percy Jackson and the Olympians and YouTube’s Gracie’s Corner securing Outstanding Children’s Program. The night culminated in a touching tribute to music legend Frankie Beverly, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Here are our top nine moments from the evening.
Taraji Thanks Fans and Industry Peers in a Touching Acceptance Speech
The Color Purple Racks Up an Amazing 11 Awards
View this post on Instagramadvertisement
Sterling K. Brown Honors His Wife, Ryan Michelle Bathe, and Black Actresses
@completechocolatecouples We just love it!❤️❤️❤️ @sterlingkbrown @ryanmichelleb #love #blacklove #marriage #completechocolatecouples ♬ original sound – CompleteChocolateCouples
Oprah Presents Usher with the 2024 Entertainer of the Year Award
@hollywoodreporter #oprahwinfrey presents #usher with the 2024 entertainer of the year award at the #naacpimageawards #naacpimageawards2024 ♬ original sound – The Hollywood Reporter
Keke Palmer and Kyla Pratt Celebrate Each Other on the Red Carpet
Kyla Pratt Congratulates an Excited Halle Bailey
@bet The reunion we didnt know we needed! @halle & #KylaPratt are giving me so kuch joy! ✨ #NAACPImageAwards #BET ♬ original sound – BET Networks
Fantasia Thanks God in Heartfelt Acceptance Speech
@bet We love you @Fantasia Taylor. This win is your BIRTHRIGHT! ✨ Congratulations on winning Oustanding Actress in a Motion Picture! #NAACPImageAwards #BET ♬ original sound – BET Networks
Damson Idris Graciously Accepts Recognition for Snowfall Performance
New Edition Receives Lifetime Achievement Award for Their Four-Decade Career
Cover photo: 9 Moments That Prove the NAACP Image Awards Are All We Need / Credit: John Salangsang/Variety via Getty Images
Congratulations to the winners, and the nominees as well. You’re proof that hard work and perseverance pay off. Thanks for bringing the glamour and the energy.