By Danielle Broadway
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – Keke Palmer, the shining star of this year’s 2025 tragicomedy blockbuster “One of Them Days,” took home the prestigious entertainer of the year accolade at the 56th NAACP Image Awards on Saturday. Teaming up with R&B sensation SZA and the talented actor Katt Williams in the film, Palmer garnered critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 95% rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, with particular emphasis on her exceptional performance.
Graciously accepting the award in Los Angeles, Palmer expressed, “It’s incredibly significant for us to gather here and celebrate each other. No one has uplifted me more than all of you in this room.” Known for her breakout role in the 2006 film “Akeelah and the Bee,” which paved the way for her leading role in the hit Nickelodeon series “True Jackson, VP” in 2008, the Emmy-winning actress continues to captivate audiences with her talent and charisma.
The NAACP Image Awards, hosted by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, stand out as one of the most prestigious entertainment honors recognizing the achievements of Black performers. A notable moment at this year’s event was the standing ovation for Kamala Harris, as the former vice president was presented with the Chairman’s Award, reserved for individuals who excel in public service and leverage their influence to instigate meaningful change.
Addressing the audience during the event broadcast by Black Entertainment Television, Harris remarked, “While we are fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead in this chapter of our American narrative, the narrative will not be solely defined by the occupant of the Oval Office or the wealthiest among us.” This poignant statement subtly alluded to President Donald Trump, who triumphed over Harris in the November election, along with his ally billionaire Elon Musk. Harris reiterated, “The American story will be crafted by you, by us, by ‘we the people.'”
Another highlight of the evening was the induction of the esteemed Wayans family into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. Recognizing the exceptional contributions of Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans, and Damon Wayans Jr. to the realm of Hollywood comedy, this honor celebrated the family’s remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry. Keenen Ivory Wayans, the creative force behind the groundbreaking sketch comedy show “In Living Color” in the 1990s, also spearheaded the 1995 sitcom “The Wayans Brothers,” featuring Shawn and Marlon Wayans. His efforts provided increased opportunities for Black comedians and served as a launching pad for the careers of renowned stars such as Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, and Jim Carrey.
Past recipients of the distinguished NAACP Hall of Fame accolade include iconic figures like New
