On Saturday evening, the 55th NAACP Image Awards celebrated Black excellence in Los Angeles. It was wonderful to see celebrities of color being recognized for their contributions to the arts and media. Derrick Johnson, the President and CEO of the NAACP, mentioned that these awards honor creativity, talent, and dedication to authentic storytelling, highlighting the richness and diversity of the community.
Queen Latifah hosted the elegant event, charming attendees in a striking chocolate-colored tuxedo gown by Christian Siriano. It was a historic moment for the cast of “The Color Purple” 2023 musical film, which received a record-breaking 16 nominations and 11 wins at the ceremony.
Interestingly, Forbes had previously noted that the original 1985 film adaptation of “The Color Purple” was the most nominated movie never to win an Oscar. This year, actress Danielle Brooks was the only cast member to receive an Oscar nod, winning ‘Best Supporting Actress.’
While awards season can be exciting and daunting, the NAACP Image Awards were established to ensure that Black artists are recognized without the fear of being overlooked. The cast of “The Color Purple” was a standout, with Fantasia Barrino, Taraji Henson, and Halle Bailey showcasing their incredible talents.
Fantasia Barrino, who won ‘Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture,’ stunned in a custom black and white Monot dress. Taraji Henson dazzled in a yellow 3D Delcore gown as she accepted her award for ‘Outstanding Supporting Actress.’ Halle Bailey looked regal in an emerald green gown from Nicole + Felicia.
Other notable attendees included Sheryl Lee Ralph in Georges Hobeika and Kerry Washington in Vivienne Westwood, who both looked elegant in their lime green dresses. Yara Shahidi turned heads in a striking black Ferragamo dress, while notable couples like Usher and his wife Jennifer, and Meagan Good with Jonathan Majors, showcased their fashion sense.
Usher, who won ‘Entertainer of the Year,’ looked sharp in a black LaQuan Smith suit. His wife, Jennifer, complemented him in a black embellished tuxedo gown by Zuhair Murad. Meagan Good wore a black lace Michael Costello gown, while Jonathan Majors kept things playful with a silk floral shirt under his tux.
KeKe Palmer also made a statement in a Tom Ford and Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo, looking both androgynous and exquisite. The NAACP Image Awards offer a platform for people of color to be celebrated for their achievements, and it was fantastic to see so many brilliant celebrities shine on this special night.