In Los Angeles, Usher emerged as the entertainer of the year at the 55th NAACP Awards. The event celebrated the achievements of entertainers and writers of color on a memorable Saturday night.
Upon receiving his award at the Shrine Auditorium, Usher, the celebrated R&B sensation, expressed his gratitude for a career that has spanned over three decades. He shared highlights of his recent achievements, including his Las Vegas residency that sold out, his marriage, the release of his ninth album “Coming Home,” and a Super Bowl halftime show that broke viewership records.
Usher triumphed over notable names such as Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer. The multi-Grammy winner, honored by Oprah Winfrey, reflected on his busy period with humility and thanked his supporters for their unwavering faith in him.
In a touching moment, Usher dedicated his award to his fans, calling them his “number ones.” He concluded his speech with lyrics from “Superstar,” a hit from his 2024 album “Confessions,” which has seen over 10 million sales in the U.S.
Earlier in the evening, Usher received the President’s Award for his philanthropic efforts through the New Look Foundation. He acknowledged the influential women in his life, including his mother and his wife, Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married following his Super Bowl performance.
Usher remarked on the strength of women, stating that behind, beside, or with every strong man stands an even stronger woman. Queen Latifah took the helm as the host of the awards ceremony, which was broadcast live on BET.
“The Color Purple” clinched the award for best motion picture. The musical boasted a cast of luminaries including Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, H.E.R., Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins, and Bailey. Barrino, who portrayed Celie in the film, won the best actress in a motion picture award.
Barrino shared her initial fears of playing Celie and her decision to proceed, emphasizing the impact and recognition from the audience as her true reward. New Edition was honored with an induction into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, celebrating their pioneering contributions to music and their lasting influence.
Michael Bivins, flanked by his group members, spoke of their journey from conflict to unity, highlighting their current Las Vegas residency and the strong brotherhood that binds them. Damson Idris was awarded best actor in a drama television series for “Snowfall,” while Henson and Domingo received accolades for their supporting roles in “The Color Purple,” with Domingo also winning best actor in a motion picture for “Rustin.”