Jonathan Landrum Jr.
In Los Angeles, Usher claimed the title of entertainer of the year at the 55th NAACP Image Awards. The event celebrated the achievements of entertainers and authors of color on Saturday night.
Upon receiving his award at the Shrine Auditorium, Usher expressed his gratitude for a career that has spanned over thirty years. He shared his appreciation for the journey and the success he has experienced.
He highlighted several key moments from his recent career. These included his Las Vegas residency, which sold out, his marriage, the release of his ninth album “Coming Home,” and his performance at the Super Bowl halftime show, which set a record for viewership.
Usher was chosen for the honor over other nominees such as Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer.
In a conversation about his Super Bowl performance, Usher revealed the most personal song from his new album.
After receiving the award from Oprah Winfrey, Usher thanked everyone who has supported him over the years. He dedicated the 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 sold over 10 million copies in the U.S.
Earlier in the evening, Usher received the President’s Award for his contributions to public service through his New Look Foundation. He thanked the influential women in his life, including his mother and his wife, Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married following his Super Bowl performance.
He acknowledged the strength of the women in his life with a saying.
The awards ceremony, hosted by Queen Latifah, was broadcast live on BET.
“The Color Purple” won the award for best motion picture. The film boasts a stellar cast including Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, H.E.R., Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins, and Bailey.
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.
New Edition was honored with an induction into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. This recognition is given to pioneers in their fields whose work has had a lasting impact.
Michael Bivins spoke on behalf of New Edition, reflecting on the group’s journey and their bond as brothers. The group, which includes Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe, and Ricky Bell, has overcome early challenges and now enjoys a residency in Las Vegas.
Damson Idris won best actor in a drama television series for “Snowfall.” Henson and Domingo received awards for their supporting roles in “The Color Purple,” with Domingo also winning best actor in a motion picture for his role in “Rustin.”