courtesy:NAACP
Los Angeles came alive on February 7, 2026, as the 57th NAACP Image Awards kicked off celebrations of Black excellence with a vibrant nominees luncheon at nya studios WEST. The event honored artists and creators across film, television, streaming, music, literature, and podcasts, bringing together some of the most influential voices in entertainment today.
An afternoon celebrating culture and creativity
The luncheon was hosted by Beyond the Gates star Ambyr Michelle and Melvin Gregg of The Paper, who set the stage for a gathering focused on talent, culture, and community. Singer-songwriter Elijah Blake delivered a captivating performance that energized the room, highlighting the artistry and impact of Black creators.
Attendees paused for a moment of remembrance honoring the late Malcolm Jamal-Warner, followed by an invocation led by Rev. George Hurtt. The ceremony blended celebration with reflection, emphasizing the enduring influence of Black artists in shaping culture and society.
Nominees shine across 10 categories
Nominees received official certificates recognizing their contributions to their fields. Notable attendees included Chase Infiniti, Tyriq Withers, Wagner Moura, Karen Pittman, Lil Rel Howery, William Stanford Davis, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Adrian Holmes, Jimmy Akingbola, Lisa Raye McCoy, Bozoma St. John, and Yvette Nicole Brown.
Other prominent figures included DeVon Franklin, Crystle Stewart, Kim Coles, Kyla Pratt, Jerrie Johnson, Edwina Findley, Melyssa Ford, Aisha Hinds, Kym Whitley, Graceyn Hollingsworth, Madison McFerrin, Lee Vasi, Kennedy Ryan, Claudia Jordan, Khloe Thomas, and Jackie Aina. The diverse assembly of talent reflected the depth of Black creativity today.
NAACP leadership underscores impact
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson highlighted the importance of visibility, storytelling, and honoring Black contributions in entertainment. Vice Chair Karen Boykin-Towns emphasized that the Image Awards have always celebrated excellence on creators’ own terms, affirming a legacy where Black voices define their own narratives and measure their own success.
The road to the main ceremony
courtesy:NAACP
This luncheon is just the start of a week of festivities leading to the live telecast of the 57th NAACP Image Awards on Saturday, February 28, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, airing on BET and CBS. Fans can vote for select categories through February 13, giving audiences the power to influence outcomes.
Additional recognition will take place during the Creative Honors from February 23 to 26 on YouTube and NAACPPlus, celebrating winners in non-televised categories and extending the reach of the celebration beyond the main telecast.
A tradition of honoring Black excellence
The NAACP Image Awards have become an iconic platform for uplifting Black creators and promoting social justice. Past honorees include Kamala Harris, Dave Chappelle, Ava DuVernay, Gabrielle Union, Dwayne Wade, Taraji P. Henson, Tyler Perry, Zendaya, Issa Rae, and Serena Williams. The 57th annual ceremony continues this legacy, spotlighting artists committed to equality, justice, and progressive change through their work.
The nominees luncheon provided a glimpse of the inspiring energy leading into the full awards show, setting the tone for a week-long celebration of talent, achievement, and culture.
Source : NAACP
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