In Los Angeles, Usher was celebrated as the entertainer of the year at the 55th NAACP Awards. The event shone a spotlight on the achievements of entertainers and writers of color.
Upon receiving his award at the Shrine Auditorium, Usher expressed his gratitude for a career spanning three decades. He shared highlights of his recent achievements. These included his Las Vegas residency that sold out, his marriage, the release of his ninth album “Coming Home,” and his Super Bowl halftime show, which set a record for viewership.
Usher triumphed over other nominees such as Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer. The multi-Grammy winner, honored by Oprah Winfrey, thanked his supporters. He dedicated the award to his fans, echoing the sentiment with lyrics from “Superstar,” a hit from his 2024 album “Confessions” which has sold over 10 million copies in the U.S.
Earlier, Usher received the President’s Award for his charitable work 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.
He remarked on the strength women bring to men’s lives. Queen Latifah hosted the live awards ceremony on BET. “The Color Purple” won best motion picture, featuring a cast of stars like Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, and others.
Fantasia Barrino, who played Celie in the film, won best actress in a motion picture. She shared her initial fears of playing Celie and her gratitude for the role’s impact. New Edition was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, recognized as pioneers in music.
Michael Bivins, alongside his group members, spoke of their journey, emphasizing their unity and growth. Damson Idris was awarded best actor in a drama television series for “Snowfall,” while Henson and Domingo received best supporting roles in “The Color Purple,” with Domingo also winning best actor in a motion picture for “Rustin.”