Alright, folks, listen up! The buzz around the 2026 NAACP Image Awards is straight-up electric, and while the main event is still on the horizon, some serious wins have already been notched. On the third and final night of the non-televised virtual ceremonies, hosted by the fantastic Angel Laketa Moore and Khleo Thomas, Ryan Coogler’s hotly anticipated film, Sinners, didn’t just show up – it showed OUT, snagging three coveted prizes. For real, this movie is already making waves, and these early accolades are just the start.
The NAACP Image Awards are, and always have been, a monumental platform celebrating Black excellence across film, television, music, and literature. They’re highkey important for recognizing the incredible talent and contributions within the Black community, ensuring these stories and artists get the shine they deserve. These early wins for Sinners, which also holds a record-breaking 16 Oscar nominations, include Best Stunt Ensemble, Outstanding Ensemble Cast (featuring a stellar lineup including Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, and Delroy Lindo, to name a few), and Outstanding Cinematography for the talented Autumn Durald Arkapaw. No cap, that’s a pretty dope haul for a film that’s already turning heads globally.
But Sinners wasn’t the only project hitting it big on Wednesday night. Gracie’s Corner proved it’s got the youth market locked down, winning both Outstanding Children’s Program and Outstanding Animated Series. That’s legit, considering the importance of quality, representative content for our kiddos. Marvel’s Ironheart, which is part of the ever-expanding MCU, also picked up two awards: Outstanding Editing in a Motion Picture or Television Series, Movie, or Special, and Chinaka Hodge scored for Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television). That’s a powerful statement for the upcoming series.
Fan favorites also saw their moments of glory. Celebrity Family Feud, a show that just keeps giving, took home the prize for Outstanding Reality Program/Reality Competition/Game Show, and of course, the legendary Steve Harvey was recognized as Outstanding Host. That dude is a natural, always keeping it real and hilarious. And let’s not forget Netflix’s Straw, which saw Teyana Taylor and Glynn Turman win for Outstanding Supporting Actress and Actor, respectively, in a TV movie, limited series, or dramatic special. Those were some spot-on performances, for sure.
In a truly poignant moment, the late Malcolm-Jamal Warner received a posthumous award for Outstanding Guest Performance in Fox’s Murder in a Small Town. His passing earlier this summer was a heavy hit, and this recognition is a beautiful tribute to his enduring talent and legacy in Hollywood. It just goes to show that some stars shine bright forever, even after they’re gone.
These non-televised categories have been rolling out over three dynamic nights, building anticipation for the main event. We’ve already seen some massive names celebrated, including Michelle Obama, Will Packer, and Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show on night one, with Lamar, SZA, and Cardi B grabbing wins on night two. The momentum is clearly building, highlighting the sheer breadth of talent and achievement within the Black community. It’s more than just awards; it’s a cultural moment.
Looking ahead, Thursday brings the Creative Honors, where Rev. Dr. Jamal-Harrison Bryant will receive the Mildred Bond Roxborough Social Justice Impact Award, which is always a powerful moment of reflection and recognition for those fighting the good fight. And Friday promises some serious style with A$AP Rocky being honored with the Vanguard Award for Fashion at the Image Awards’ Reception & Fashion Show, hosted by the always-stunning Meagan Good. It’s gonna be a whole vibe, no doubt.
The grand finale, the main televised event, is set to air live on Saturday, February 28, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS, broadcast from the iconic Pasadena Civic Auditorium. Deon Cole is set to host, so you know it’s gonna be a night full of laughs and good energy. The special honorees are a who’s who of Black excellence: Viola Davis will receive the Chairman’s Award, and Colman Domingo will be presented with the President’s Award. Plus, in a move that’s pure fire, the legendary Salt-n-Pepa and DJ Spinderella are getting inducted into the NAACP Image Awards’ Hall of Fame. That’s a sick lineup, for real!
So, as we gear up for the main show, it’s clear that this year’s NAACP Image Awards are once again showcasing the immense talent, creativity, and cultural impact of Black artists and visionaries. From record-breaking films to essential children’s programming, the awards underscore the diverse and powerful narratives that continue to shape our world. It’s a celebration of stories that resonate, inspire, and entertain, proving that Black excellence is truly unmatched.
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