NAACP Image Awards 2025: Celebrating Black Wins in Film, Television and Music

The 2025 NAACP Image Awards continued their tradition of honouring outstanding Black creatives, performers and visionaries in entertainment, literature and media on Wednesday, during night two of the 56th NAACP Image Awards’ pre-awards show, more winners were revealed following Tuesday night’s virtual, non-televised ceremony, which kicked off the celebration.

Major Winners in Film and Television

One of the most celebrated winners of the night was The Six Triple Eight, a powerful Netflix drama about the only all-Black female battalion to serve in World War II. The film’s cast won Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture, while Ebony Obsidian earned Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture for her compelling role.

Director Malcolm Washington was recognised with Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture) for his work on The Piano Lesson, a film adaptation of August Wilson’s play, which was praised for its evocative storytelling and stunning performances.

On the television side, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist stood out, securing wins for Taraji P. Henson (Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series) and Samuel L. Jackson (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series). The Peacock crime drama, which garnered nine nominations, lived up to expectations with these well-deserved victories.

Keke Palmer’s charisma and charm as the host of NBC’s Password earned her the Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition Show award, reinforcing her status as a versatile and beloved television personality.

Additionally, The Bear star Ayo Edebiri continued her award season streak by winning Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television) for her acclaimed work in the hit FX series.

The NAACP Image Awards also highlighted the impact of Black voices in literature and documentary storytelling.

Journalist Joy-Ann Reid was honoured with Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography for Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America, a powerful exploration of civil rights history.

In documentary filmmaking, Dawn Porter won Outstanding Directing in a Documentary for Luther: Never Too Much, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary R&B singer Luther Vandross.

The NAACP Image Awards will culminate with a star-studded main ceremony on Saturday, February 22, 2025, airing live on BET and simulcast on CBS. Hosted by Deon Cole, the event will feature special tributes, including the Chairman’s Award for Kamala Harris, the President’s Award for Dave Chappelle and the Founders Award for BET Media Group.

With this year’s awards celebrating a diverse array of Black talent across multiple disciplines, the NAACP Image Awards remain a vital institution that uplifts and honours Black excellence.