The 2024 NAACP Image Awards are in full swing, with Queen Latifah taking the helm as the host. This year, the ceremony is broadcasted on BET and CBS, bringing together a star-studded evening.
Queen Latifah is hosting the televised event for the second consecutive year. The celebration follows the presentation of awards in non-televised categories earlier in the week.
“The Color Purple” has already clinched seven awards out of its 16 nominations before the main event on Saturday night.
The show began with a unique opening. Queen Latifah received a backstage call from Vice President Kamala Harris, despite starting over 20 minutes past the scheduled 8 p.m. ET.
In her opening monologue, Latifah acknowledged various audience members and highlighted significant achievements by notable Black figures over the past year. She humorously mentioned Luke Combs’ cover of “Fast Car,” praising it as a rare moment of consent for a song’s adaptation.
Vice President Harris encouraged Latifah to remind the audience about the importance of the 2024 elections. Latifah urged everyone to register to vote and check their voting status, also touching on the issue of pay inequality in Hollywood.
Latifah and Taraji P. Henson, who won the first award of the evening, brought attention to the issue of equal pay for Black actresses. Henson has been vocal about her struggle for fair compensation throughout her career.
Latifah praised Henson for her advocacy and invited other Black actresses and supporters to stand in solidarity. She emphasized the resilience and achievements of the Black community, urging everyone to vote in November.
Henson expressed her gratitude and surprise upon receiving her award, thanking the audience for their consistent support, especially regarding pay inequality.
She encouraged everyone to speak their truth, highlighting the liberating power of honesty for both the individual and others.
The ceremony also honored Amanda Gorman with the Chairman’s Award, Usher with the President’s Award, and New Edition’s induction into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.
Andra Day performed at the event, which featured a lineup of distinguished presenters including Delroy Lindo, Idris Elba, and Taraji P. Henson, among others.
Earlier in the week, virtual ceremonies announced winners in various categories. Thursday’s non-televised gala at the Hollywood Palladium saw Sherri Shepherd win for outstanding host, among other awards.
Friday’s fashion show, hosted by Brandee Evans, saw “The Color Purple” win in all three categories presented, with June Ambrose receiving the NAACP Vanguard Award for Fashion.
The article concludes with a list of nominees and winners for Saturday night’s awards, highlighting the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event.