56th NAACP Image Awards 2025: Everything You Need To Know—Date, Host, And Major Nominees Revealed

The 56th NAACP Image Awards are fast approaching, and the excitement is building as we prepare to honor outstanding achievements and performances of people of color in the arts, as well as those who promote social justice through their creativity. As of this current date, December 13, 2025, all the essential details—from the host to the date and the full list of nominees—have been officially confirmed, setting the stage for one of the most significant cultural events of the year.

This year’s ceremony is poised to be a spectacular celebration, recognizing talent across film, television, music, literature, and more, continuing the NAACP's powerful tradition of uplifting Black excellence. The full list of nominees, announced in January 2025, highlights a dynamic range of artists and projects that have made a profound impact on the global cultural landscape over the past year.

The Essential Details: Date, Location, and Host for the 56th Ceremony

The 56th NAACP Image Awards, often simply referred to as the NAACP Image Awards 2025, is scheduled to take place in February, marking a key moment in the annual awards season. The event is a crucial platform for celebrating the diverse and impactful contributions of Black artists and leaders.

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When and Where to Watch the 2025 NAACP Image Awards

The main event will be broadcast live, ensuring fans across the country can tune in to see their favorite stars and projects receive top honors. The details are as follows:

• Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025.
• Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT.
• Venue: The Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
• Location: Pasadena, California.
• Broadcast Channels: The ceremony will be televised live on both BET and CBS.

In addition to the main telecast, the NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Ceremonies will reveal winners in non-televised categories on Friday, February 21, 2025, which can be viewed online.

Meet the Host: Deon Cole

Taking the reins for the 56th ceremony is the charismatic and hilarious comedian and actor, Deon Cole. Known for his roles in shows like Black-ish and Grown-ish, Cole is expected to bring his signature wit and energy to the stage, ensuring a night filled with laughter and memorable moments. His selection as host is a testament to his rising stature in the entertainment world and his ability to connect with a broad audience.

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Major Nominees and Key Categories: The Road to the Image Awards

The nominations for the 56th NAACP Image Awards were officially announced on January 7, 2025, highlighting a competitive field across all categories. The nominees represent the very best in Black artistry and activism from the past year, generating significant buzz and predictions among fans and critics alike.

The Coveted 'Entertainer of the Year' Race

One of the most highly anticipated awards is the "Entertainer of the Year," which recognizes an individual whose work has had the most profound impact on the public consciousness. The 2025 nominees for this prestigious title are a powerhouse group, showcasing talent from music, film, and sports commentary.

• Cynthia Erivo
• Keke Palmer
• Kendrick Lamar
• Kevin Hart
• Shannon Sharpe

The competition is fierce, with artists like Keke Palmer and Kendrick Lamar having massive cultural moments, while Cynthia Erivo continues to impress across multiple platforms. The inclusion of sports commentator Shannon Sharpe also highlights the growing recognition of influential figures outside of traditional performance arts.

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Film and Television Projects Dominating Nominations

Several major projects have garnered multiple nominations, reflecting their critical and commercial success. The animated film categories, in particular, feature strong contenders.

• The Wild Robot
• Piece By Piece
• Kung Fu Panda 4
• Moana 2

In the live-action categories, the film Six Triple Eight was noted for winning big at the 56th NAACP Image Awards, a strong indicator of its performance across various categories. This project highlights the importance of telling Black stories that resonate deeply with audiences and critics.

Music and Voice Performance Standouts

The music categories are always a highlight, and the 2025 nominations feature some of the biggest names in Gospel and contemporary music.

• "Church Doors" - Yolanda Adams
• "Do It Anyway" - Tasha Cobbs Leonard
• "God Problems (Not By Power)" - Maverick City

Additionally, the "Best Voice Performance" category has generated buzz, with predictions favoring established talents like Lupita Nyong'o, known for her roles in major franchises like Black Panther. These music and voice categories underscore the breadth of talent being recognized by the NAACP.

The Significance of the NAACP Image Awards in 2025

The 56th NAACP Image Awards is more than just an awards show; it is a vital cultural institution. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) uses this platform to not only celebrate artistic excellence but also to reinforce its mission of ensuring the political, educational, social, and economic equality of all people. Recognizing achievements in the arts is a powerful way to address critical issues and promote positive change.

The awards provide crucial visibility for Black creators, ensuring their work is celebrated and seen by a global audience. The event serves as a major networking opportunity for industry professionals and a source of inspiration for aspiring artists. The voting process, which closed on February 7, 2025, allowed the public to participate, making the wins truly representative of community appreciation.

As the date of the telecast on February 22, 2025, approaches, anticipation will only continue to grow. With a dynamic host, a star-studded list of nominees, and a commitment to celebrating Black excellence, the 56th NAACP Image Awards is set to be an unforgettable night of cultural significance and powerful recognition.