January 2025

Star-Studded 26th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Hosted by Bill Bellamy and Rocsi Diaz Honors Michael Strahan, Cameron Jordan, Jared Verse

The 26th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, an official NFL-sanctioned event and a cornerstone of Super Bowl weekend for over a quarter of a century, is now set to dazzle audiences with an unforgettable evening of music, faith, and football during Super Bowl LIX week in New Orleans with a star-studded live taping on FOX. This year’s celebration is led by acclaimed hosts Bill Bellamy, comedian and actor known for his scene-stealing roles in Love Jones and Any Given Sunday, and New Orleans native Rocsi Diaz, Emmy Award-winning media personality who currently serves as co-host for Tubi’s We Got Time Today with sports legend Deion Sanders. 

Joining Bellamy and Diaz to celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage and unbreakable spirit of New Orleans with epic performances and mashups is an incredible slate of award-winning artists, including The Isley Brothers, Muni Long, Yolanda Adams, Tori Kelly, and Jonathan McReynolds; New Orleans’ own Master PBig FreediaLucky Daye, and Trombone Shorty; as well as the soulful harmonies of the NFL Players Choir, and heartfelt tributes to NFL players and leaders. This celebration under the theme “Keep Going” will premiere as a primetime special on FOX onSaturday, February 8, 2025, at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT, with additional airings on FS1, FOX Sports VOD, FOX Soul and Tubi.

“Hosting the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is like hitting the trifecta—music, faith, and football all in one show! And you can’t beat doing it in New Orleans. I’m excited to bring some laughs, some energy, and to be part of this incredible night with an amazing lineup,” said Bellamy. 

“Growing up in the lively vibe of New Orleans, I’ve felt the magic, resilience, and soul that make this city totally unique,” Diaz said with excitement. “Joining forces with Bill to host Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is a blast—it’s my moment to spotlight the beauty and spirit of the Big Easy! This isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of faith, community, and unity—values that define New Orleans and inspire the world. I’m beyond excited to help bring this epic night to life in my hometown!”

Honoring outstanding achievements on and off the field, the Lifetime of Inspiration Award will be presented to former NFL player and FOX Sports’ award-winning broadcaster Michael Strahan, celebrating his impact on sports, media, and philanthropy. 


“Being recognized with the Lifetime of Inspiration Award is such an incredible honor,” said Strahan. “When I think about the legends who’ve received this award, it’s truly special to be part of this group. The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is more than just music or football; it’s about making a real impact on and off the field. I’m thrilled to participate in this exceptional event which showcases a commitment to fostering positive change.

The Community Award will recognize New Orleans Saints player Cameron Jordan for his dedication to service and leadership, while Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams will be honored with the Rising Star Award. Additional honorees and show participants will be announced.


The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is brought to life by an outstanding production team dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience. The event is founded and executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as executive producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as showrunner and director, with GRAMMY®-nominated artist Adam Blackstone as music director, ensuring a seamless blend of performance, storytelling, and inspiration.  

“As we celebrate the 26th year of the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration as an official NFL-sanctioned event, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the journey that has brought us here,” said Few, Founder and Executive Producer. “Returning to New Orleans, a city that embodies resilience, culture, and faith, feels like the perfect way to honor the essence of what this event has always stood for. New Orleans is a city with a heartbeat of music, a legacy of strength, and a deep sense of community—qualities that reflect the very soul of this celebration.”

Laurence Fishburne and Hiroyuki Sanada to Receive Special Tribute and Honorary Awards at 52nd Annual Saturn Awards

The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films is proud to unveil special tribute and honorary awards at the upcoming 52ndAnnual Saturn Awards, including Laurence Fishburne whowill receive The Lance Reddick Legacy Award and two-time Emmy® and two-time Golden Globe® Award-winner Hiroyuki Sanada who is receiving The Robert Forster Artist’s Award.The Saturn Awards is being held Sunday, February 2 at The Hilton Universal City Hotel and will be live-streamed for FREE on both The Roku Channel and Electric Entertainment’s premium OTT app and FAST channel, ElectricNOW. 

Gallery coverage of the CBS series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

Academy President Robert Holguin, alongside Saturn producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus, comment, “Both of these remarkable actors have significantly shaped the entertainment landscape, and captivating audiences around the globe. Their unique contributions have enriched genre entertainment and played a pivotal role in bringing it into the mainstream, celebrating the creativity and passion that fuel our industry. We can’t wait to honor their incredible achievements!”

The Lance Reddick Legacy Award represents and honors a performer’s exceptional talent and character, recognizing an individual who serves as an exemplary goodwill ambassador within their industry. Following in the footsteps of last year’s recipient, Keanu ReevesLaurence Fishburne will be presented his award by acclaimed Emmy® and Grammy® Award-winning actor, director and producer LeVar Burton. Laurence’s ability to embody complex characters and convey deep emotions has solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry.  For the past 40 years, he has been using his platform and influence to promote positive change, inclusivity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts in the entertainment industry.

The Robert Forster Artist’s Award honors an actor for their body of work and impact on the industry in memory of the Academy’s late, dear friend and Saturn Award favorite, Robert Forster. His talent and legacy among his peers have been an inspiration to us all. Hiroyuki Sanada’s ability to seamlessly transition between Japanese and Western cinema while maintaining authenticity and depth in his performances has made him a respected figure both in Japan and internationally. His dedication to his craft and efforts to promote cultural exchange through his work mark him as an exemplary figure worthy of recognition. His influence extends beyond his acting prowess; he has been a trailblazer for Japanese actors in Hollywood, breaking barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in the industry. 

Previous recipients of The Robert Forster Artist’s Award have been Christopher Lloyd and Seth MacFarlane.

About The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror

The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror is a non-profit organization founded in 1972 by film historian Doctor Donald A. Reed and is supported by several hundred genre enthusiasts and professionals (such as JJ Abrams, Dean Devlin, Gale Anne Hurd, Guillermo Del Toro, Greg Berlanti, and Kevin Feige) who have participated in the ongoing efforts of the Academy to promote genre film production and television programming since 1972. The organization is currently headed by President Robert Holguin and Saturn leaders Bradley Marcus and Kevin Marcus.

DEADLY ATTRACTION Red Carpet Premiere

Deadly Attraction is #1 on TUBI and is on both their “Most Popular” and “Recommended” tabs — and is about “a woman who encounters a younger man who reignites her faith in true love, but she sees a jealous dark side to him and soon realizes her craving for love can potentially turn deadly.”

Those in attendance included: Monyetta Shaw-CarterToya RushingVeon SelmanTerry Allen (B.M.F.)Tray ChaneyArrington Foster (BET’s Family Business)Christina JohnsonTameka FosterRasheeda FrostAngel LoveZaneSincerely Ward, Shaquita Smith and much more.



Synopsis – Eboni Jackson (40s), owner of a thriving PR Firm, regrets putting her career over finding love. After another bad date with an arrogant peer, she confides in her friend Tasha (30s) who suggests she considers dating younger men. When Eboni’s car breaks down, a charming young surgeon, Michael (30s) comes to her aid. They begin dating and Michael seems like the perfect man. Eboni falls for Michael, and he reveals that he’s having financial problems. Eboni, eager to make things work, surprises Michael with a check. Tasha doesn’t believe that giving Michael money is good judgement and expresses concern that Eboni is moving too fast with Michael. When one of Eboni’s employees, Chase, helps Eboni with her bags, jealousy grips Michael. Chase is later murdered in his apartment. On a double date with Tasha, Eboni witnesses an unhinged side of Michael. When Tasha’s date Dr. Donald probes into Michael’s backstory he flies into a rage and strikes Donald. Days later Dr. Donald ends up dead. Fearing that Michael may be the killer, Eboni decides to break things off with him. This angers Michael who promises Eboni that she’ll regret it. More tragedy strikes as Tasha is killed. Detective Parker (47) who has been investigating a string of domestic homicides reveals to Eboni that Michael isn’t who he claims to be and that her life may be in grave danger.

American Black Film Festival Honors Announces 2025 Honorees

Hosted by Zainab Johnson, ABFF Honors Celebrates Legendary Performers Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Giancarlo Esposito and Keke Palmer 

The 7th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors announced today the honorees of its annual awards ceremony recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. Presented by NICE CROWD, the 2025 ABFF Honorswill take place on Monday, February 17 at the SLS hotel in Beverly Hills, CA, hosted by actress and comedian Zainab Johnson. The intimate, non-televised dinner will feature ABFF honorees and festival partners.

The 2025 ABFF Honors recipients are:

Excellence in the Arts Award (Female) – an Oscar-nominated actress, acclaimed for her portrayal of Oracene Price in King Richard, which earned her numerous awards and nominations, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will soon star in the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Nickel Boys. This award recognizes a highly acclaimed artist for their body of work and distinguished career achievements.

Giancarlo Esposito, an Emmy-nominated and award-winning actor, director, and producer, is celebrated for his iconic role as Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, earning multiple accolades including Critics’ Choice and NAACP Image Awards. Known for his versatility, he stars as Moff Gideon in Disney+’s The Mandalorian, Stan Edgar in Amazon Prime’s The Boys, and has led projects like Netflix’s Kaleidoscope and AMC’s Parish. Esposito’s filmography includes The Usual Suspects, Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, Beauty, and Megalopolis. Upcoming projects include Captain America: Brave New World, the Russo Brothers’ The Electric State, and Shonda Rhimes’ The Residence. He continues to captivate audiences across film, television, and streaming platforms with his powerful performances and remarkable range.

Keke Palmer is a multi- Emmy Award winning actress and television host, singer/songwriter, producer, NY Times best-selling author and a passionate voice of the millennial generation. She rose to fame at 12 with her breakout role in Akeelah and the Bee and has since starred in over 25 films and 30 TV shows, including True Jackson, VP. Recently, Keke starred in Jordan Peele’s blockbuster Nope and hosted NBC’s Password with Jimmy Fallon, earning the 2023 Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Game Show. In addition to releasing her new book, Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative, Palmer is set to star in the upcoming TriStar Pictures’ film One of Them Days. As CEO of KeyTV and Big Bosses Entertainment, she champions diverse creators and democratizes entertainment. Palmer has made history as the youngest SAG-nominated actress in a lead role, the first Black Cinderella on Broadway, and the youngest talk show host in history, continuing to break barriers across her remarkable career.

ABFF Honors is the American Black Film Festival’s annual awards season gala dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. Founded in 2016, the ceremony pays tribute to Black artists who have made significant contributions to American entertainment through their work as well as those who champion diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. 

ABFF Honors stems from the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the leading festival of its kind showcasing Black storytelling. Since its inception, the ABFF has been dedicated to supporting Friday’s conviction that Black artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. Having premiered the work and encouraged the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers and actors, the ABFF has become the standard-bearer of excellence for Black American creativity. 

ABFF Honors is executive produced by Nicole and Jeff Friday (NICE CROWD) in association with dePasse Jones Entertainment and Rikki Hughes (Magic Lemonade). Sponsors for the event to date include: CadillacAlly (Presenting), and Sony Pictures EntertainmentFulton Films GA (Supporting), and SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills (Industry).

Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair

Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair picks up as Kendra (Ajiona Alexus)and Ben (Da’Vinchi) move out of the city in hopes of finally building a life together. With all their family around and inserted in their lives, tensions rise as they struggle with fertility issues and Kendra tries to find her footing with Ben’s son Miles.  Their relationship reaches a boiling point when Ben secretly helps his brother, and Kendra returns to the city and an old friend comes back into her life. The family must come together to help Kendra and Ben save their relationship and stay true to their real love.   

MARY J. BLIGE’S FAMILY AFFAIR 

PREMIERES THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 8/7C


Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair is produced by Front Street Pictures.  Mary J. Blige, Bruce Miller, and Milana Edwards-Brooks executive produce from Blue Butterfly alongside Davis Entertainment’s Jordan and John Davis and Ajiona Alexus and Da’Vinchi also executive produce. Troy Scott directs from a script written by Rachel Ingram. 

Ajiona Alexus
Ajiona Alexus



Da’Vinchi

ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 40 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies, high-quality limited series and breakout non-fiction series and documentaries. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long-running Stop Breast Cancer for Life, Stop Violence Against Women, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime DigitalTM are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney- ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

THE KING CENTER BELOVED COMMUNITY AWARDS

The Beloved Community Awards honor national and international individuals and

organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership, unwavering commitment to social justice, and

a dedication to fostering the Beloved Community. This event is a unique opportunity to celebrate

those who are making a significant impact in the world and to be inspired by their remarkable

contributions. The Beloved Community Awards not only celebrates excellence but also reinforces

the values of equality, peace, and justice. This year’s event was hosted by Entertainment Tonight’s

Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner. This year’s honorees include:

5Beloved Community Civic Leadership AwardBlack Voters Matter – Accepted by LaTosha

Brown and Cliff Albright, Co-Founders. This award was presented by Michael Tubbs, Founder/

Executive Director of EPIC and Executive Chairman of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income.

Beloved Community Technological Innovation Award – PSYONICAccepted by Aadeel

Akhtar, Founder and CEO.

Beloved Community Christine King Farris Legacy of Service in Education AwardMorris

Brown -Accepted by Dr. Kevin E. James, President. This award presented by Dr. Angela

Farris Watkins, Author, Civic Intellectual, and Professor at Spelman College.

Beloved Community Yolanda D. King Higher Ground Award – Jenifer Lewis-Actress,

Singer, Author, Activist. This award presented by Kyla Pratt, award-winning actress, writer

and producer.

Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Individual) – Heman BekeleStudent

Scientist. This award presented by Iain Armitage, Actor.

Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Corporation) – Latino American Association

Accepted by Santiago Marquez, Chief Executive Officer.

Beloved Community Environmental Justice Award – SerenbeAccepted by Steve Nygren-

Founder and Managing Partner.

Beloved Community Coretta Scott King Soul of the Nation AwardNadia Murad President

& Chairwoman of Nadia’s Initiative and Nobel Peace Laureate. This award presented by

Minyon Moore.

Beloved Community Corporate Social Impact AwardMARS, Inc.- Accepted by Anton

Vincent, President of Mars Wrigley North America & Global Ice Cream. This award

presented by Morgan Shaw Parker, President and Chief Operating Officer of WNBA

Atlanta Dream.

Beloved Community Social Justice AwardAIDS Healthcare Foundation– Accepted by

Michael Weinstein, President and Co-Founder.

Beloved Community Salute to Greatness Humanitarian Award- Laura Arnold- Founder and

Co-Chair of Arnold Ventures.

Special musical performances by Eric Benet, Jennifer Holliday, and MaKenzie

Thomas.

SINNERS starring Michael B. Jordan

From Ryan Coogler—director of “Black Panther” and “Creed”—and starring Michael B. Jordan comes a new vision of fear: “Sinners.” Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back. “You keep dancing with the devil, one day he’s gonna follow you home.” Written and directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Coogler, “Sinners” stars Jordan (the “Black Panther” and “Creed” franchises) in a dual role, joined by Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld (“Bumblebee,” “True Grit”), Jack O’Connell (“Ferrari”), Wunmi Mosaku (“Passenger”), Jayme Lawson (“The Woman King”), Omar Benson Miller (“True Lies”), and Delroy Lindo (“Da 5 Bloods”). The film is produced by Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian and Ryan Coogler. The executive producers are Ludwig Göransson, Will Greenfield and Rebecca Cho. Coogler’s behind-the-camera artisans include his “Black Panther” franchise collaborators: director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Oscar-winning production designer Hannah Beachler, editor Michael P. Shawver, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter. Warner Bros. Pictures presents A Proximity Media Production, A Ryan Coogler Film: “Sinners.” The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, in theaters only nationwide on March 7, 2025, and internationally beginning on 5 March 2025.

THE ALTO KNIGHTS STARRING ROBERT DINERO

From Warner Bros. Pictures, “The Alto Knights” stars Academy Award winner Robert De Niro in a dual role, directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson. The film follows two of New York’s most notorious organized crime bosses, Frank Costello (De Niro) and Vito Genovese (De Niro), as they vie for control of the city’s streets. Once the best of friends, petty jealousies and a series of betrayals place them on a deadly collision course that will reshape the Mafia (and America) forever. “The Alto Knights” was written by Oscar nominee Nicholas Pileggi (“Goodfellas”) and produced by Oscar winner Irwin Winkler (“Rocky,” “Goodfellas”), Levinson, Jason Sosnoff, Charles Winkler and David Winkler, with Mike Drake executive producing. De Niro stars alongside Debra Messing (“Will & Grace”), Cosmo Jarvis (“Shōgun”), Kathrine Narducci (“The Irishman”), Michael Rispoli (“Billions”), Michael Adler (“Peppermint”), Ed Amatrudo (“Till,” “Nashville”), Joe Bacino (“Kick-Ass”), Anthony J. Gallo (“The Irishman”), Wallace Langham (“Ford v Ferrari”), Louis Mustillo (“Cooper’s Bar,” “Mike & Molly”), Frank Piccirillo, Matt Servitto (“Billions”) and Robert Uricola (“Raging Bull”). Joining Levinson (“Rainman,” “Dopesick”) behind the camera are Oscar-nominated director of photography Dante Spinotti (“The Insider,” “L.A. Confidential”), production designer Neil Spisak (the “Spider-Man” films, “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated editor Douglas Crise (“Babel,” “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated costume designer Jeffrey Kurland (“Bullets Over Broadway,” “Tenet”), award-winning casting director Ellen Chenoweth (“Past Lives”) and composer David Fleming (“Hillbilly Elegy,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”). Warner Bros. Pictures Presents an Irwin Winkler Production, a Barry Levinson Film, “The Alto Knights.” The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures worldwide and released in theaters nationwide on March 21, 2025, and internationally beginning 19 March 2025.

Snoop Dogg to Host NFL Honors

Snoop Dogg, multi-platinum rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, DJ, media personality, businessman and icon, will host NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, an Align Technology brand, on Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans.  The primetime awards special recognizing the NFL’s best players, performances and plays from the 2024 season will air live at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on FOX and NFL Network and stream on NFL+. The program will not air live in all time zones.

An entertainment industry mogul, Snoop Dogg has reigned for nearly three decades as an unparalleled force, consistently raising the bar as a globally recognized innovator.  Over the course of his storied music career, Snoop Dogg has released 21 studio albums, sold more than 40 million albums worldwide, reached #1 countless times on Billboard charts internationally and received 20 Grammy Award nominations.  He recently served as a coach on NBC’s four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series “The Voice.”

As a philanthropist, Snoop Dogg launched the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) 17 years ago that has since seen more than 40 kids make it to the NFL. As part of the SYFL, Snoop Special Stars ensures that kids with any physical, mental or developmental disabilities also participate.

NFL Honors debuted in 2012 and features the announcement of awards, such as The Associated Press’ annual accolades, the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year presented by Nationwide and the newest Pro Football Hall of Fame Class the week leading up to the Super Bowl.

The awards announced at NFL Honors presented by Invisalign include:

AP Most Valuable Player presented by InvisalignAP Coach of the Year
AP Comeback Player of the YearAP Offensive Player of the Year presented by Microsoft Surface
AP Defensive Player of the Year presented by TCLAP Offensive Rookie of the Year
AP Defensive Rookie of the YearNext Gen Stats Moment of the Year powered by AWS
Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year presented by NationwideNFL Inspire Change Tribute
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024FedEx Air & Ground Players of the Year
Salute to Service Award presented by USAANFL Latino Youth Honors presented by P&G
Art Rooney Sportsmanship AwardDeacon Jones Sack Leader Award
AP Assistant Coach of the YearNFL Fan of the Year presented by Captain Morgan
NFL FLAG Players of the Year award presented by Toyota 

On Thursday, Feb. 6, NFL Honors Red Carpet Show presented by Invisalign airs at 8 p.m. ET on NFL Network leading up to NFL Honors.  Local blackout restrictions may apply. 

Further details regarding this year’s NFL Honors presented by Invisalign will be announced at a later date.

NFL Honors is an NFL Network production in association with Rock Garden Media. For more information about NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, fans may visit www.nfl.com/honors and follow the #NFLHonors conversation on X. 

FOX will present Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025.

KIRK FRANKLIN TO RECEIVE BLACK MUSIC ICON AWARD 

LEGENDARY ARTIST KIRK FRANKLIN TO RECEIVE BLACK MUSIC ICON AWARD AT FOURTH ANNUAL RECORDING ACADEMY® HONORS PRESENTED BY THE BLACK MUSIC COLLECTIVE 

GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, songwriter and producer Kirk Franklinwill be celebrated at the fourth annual Recording Academy® Honors Presented by the Black Music Collective at the Fairmont Century Plaza. Franklin will receive the Black Music Icon Award, which celebrates Black music creators whose commitment to their craft has profoundly shaped the industry and whose legacy of service inspires countless people around the world. 

“Kirk has not only revolutionized gospel music but has also bridged the gap between genres, redefining the possibilities of musical expression and inspiring generations with his message of hope and faith,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “His unwavering dedication to his craft and his legacy of service embody the very essence of the Black Music Icon Award. We look forward to honoring Kirk for his profound influence on the industry and the countless lives he continues to touch worldwide.”

Franklin, a 20-time GRAMMY Award-winning gospel artist, has revolutionized the gospel music genre by blending gospel, R&B and hip-hop. A Fort Worth, Texas native, Franklin began playing piano at age four and directing choirs at 11. His debut album, Kirk Franklin & The Family, was the first gospel album to sell more than a million copies, spending 100 weeks on the Billboard Gospel charts. Known for hits like “Stomp,” “Revolution” and “Brighter Day,” Franklin’s music has achieved widespread crossover success and transformed the genre. Through the joint-venture partnership between RCA Records and his company, Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, Franklin has fostered diverse, Christ-centered content while mentoring urban youth. His 13 albums, all certified gold or platinum, have earned him nine Dove Awards, 33 Stellar Awards and a Soul Train Award. Collaborating with artists like Kanye West, Mary J. Blige and Chance the Rapper, Franklin has consistently bridged the gap between gospel and mainstream music, reaching broader audiences. In 2011, he also authored The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life’s Storms , which focuses on a transparent approach to addressing issues ranging from marriage and politics to sex and religion. Through his foundation, he leads community outreach initiatives focused on education and mentorship, empowering future generations and promoting personal growth through faith and music. Franklin’s renowned leadership of urban contemporary gospel choirs—including The Family, God’s Property and One Nation Crew (1NC)—continues to dominate the Billboard Gospel chart while achieving mainstream success. A trailblazer in music, Franklin’s legacy resonates globally, uniting audiences through the power of faith.

Returning for the fourth consecutive year to produce the Recording Academy Honors event is MVD Inc, with Adam Blackstone also returning as music supervisor for the evening.

NOMINEES ANNOUNCED FOR THE “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS”

Today, NAACP announced the full list of “56th NAACP Image Awards” nominees, with Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart, and Shannon Sharpe nominated for Entertainer of the Year. The winners will be revealed Friday, February 21, 2025 at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Ceremonies on naacpimageawards.net and during the two-hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, February 22, 2025 from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, at 8 PM ET/ 8 PM PT on BET and CBS. This year’s theme is, “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.”

The Piano Lesson leads in motion picture categories with 14 nods followed by The Book of Clarence with six nominations. Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist leads across the television categories with nine nominations. Netflix also leads with an impressive 64 nominations.

Ayo Edebiri is leading the television and streaming categories with four nominations – three for her role in The Bear and one for Saturday Night Live. Keke Palmerearned four total nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, recognition for her role in Password, her performance in The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy,and her podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer.

GloRilla received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nominations followed closely by Doechii, Kendrick Lamar and Usher, earning four nods respectively. RCA Records received an impressive 11 nominations, the most across record labels. Penguin Random House leads nominations across literary categories with four nominations, followed by HarperCollins Amistad and William Morrow tied with three nominations.

Nominations were announced today live on CBS Mornings by singer and actress Chlöe Bailey and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and on YouTube by actress Novi Brown and musician and star of Grownish Trevor Jackson.

“We look forward to celebrating the brilliance of Black talent and creativity whose stories shape culture, ignite change, and inspire generations,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “Through film, music, literature, and more, their voices weave a rich tapestry that honors our heritage, celebrates our identity, and proves that storytelling is a powerful force for driving true progress.”

“The NAACP Image Awards stand as a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and impact of Black creatives, innovators, and changemakers,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET Media Group. “BET is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the NAACP to celebrate Black excellence in all forms. Together, we shine a light on the stories, voices, and artistry that shape culture and drive progress.”

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

  • Cynthia Erivo
  • Keke Palmer
  • Kendrick Lamar
  • Kevin Hart
  • Shannon Sharpe

OUTSTANDING SOCIAL MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

  • Kai Cenat
  • Keith Lee
  • RaeShanda Lias
  • Shirley Raines
  • Tony Baker

MOTION PICTURE CATEGORIES

Outstanding Motion Picture

  • Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
  • Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
  • The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
  • The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
  • Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture

  • André Holland — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
  • Colman Domingo — “Sing Sing” (A24)
  • John David Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
  • Kingsley Ben-Adir — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
  • Martin Lawrence — “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (Sony Pictures)

Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture

  • Cynthia Erivo — “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)
  • Kerry Washington — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
  • Lashana Lynch — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
  • Lupita Nyong’o — “A Quiet Place: Day One” (Paramount Pictures)
  • Regina King — “Shirley” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

  • Brian Tyree Henry — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Corey Hawkins — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
  • David Alan Grier — “The American Society of Magical Negroes” (Focus Features)
  • Denzel Washington — “Gladiator II” (Paramount Pictures)
  • Samuel L. Jackson — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

  • Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
  • Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
  • Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
  • Lynn Whitfield — “Albany Road” (Faith Filmworks)

Outstanding Independent Motion Picture

  • Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
  • Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
  • Rob Peace (Republic Pictures)
  • Sing Sing (A24)
  • We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)

Outstanding International Motion Picture

  • El lugar de la otra (Netflix)
  • Emilia Pérez (Netflix)
  • Memoir of a Snail (IFC Films)
  • The Seed of the Sacred Fig (NEON)
  • The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi (ArtMattan Films)

Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture

  • Brandon Wilson — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Clarence Maclin — “Sing Sing” (A24)
  • Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
  • Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
  • Ryan Destiny — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture

  • Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
  • The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
  • The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
  • The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
  • Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Animated Motion Picture

  • Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Kung Fu Panda 4 (DreamWorks Animation)
  • Moana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Piece by Piece (Focus Features)
  • The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Character Voice–Over Performance – Motion Picture

  • Aaron Pierre — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Anika Noni Rose — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Ayo Edebiri — “Inside Out 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Blue Ivy Carter — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
  • Lupita Nyong’o — “The Wild Robot” (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Short Form (Live Action)

  • Chocolate with Sprinkles (AFI)
  • Definitely Not a Monster
  • If They Took Us Back
  • My Brother & Me (MeowBark Films)
  • Superman Doesn’t Steal

Outstanding Short Form (Animated)

  • if(fy) (OTB/The Hidden Hand Studios)
  • Nate & John (Unity Animation Project, LLC)
  • Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz “Jackie Robinson” (Exhibit Treal Studios)
  • Self (Pixar Animation Studios)
  • Walk in the Light (419 Studios)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture)

  • David Fortune — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
  • Malcolm Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
  • RaMell Ross — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Titus Kaphar — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
  • Zoë Kravitz — “Blink Twice” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Youth Performance in a Motion Picture

  • Anthony B. Jenkins — “The Deliverance” (Netflix)
  • Blake Cameron James — “We Grown Now” (Sony Pictures Classics)
  • Jeremiah Daniels — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
  • Percy Daggs IV — “Never Let Go” (Lionsgate)
  • Skylar Aleece Smith — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Cinematography in a Motion Picture

  • Andrés Arochi — “Longlegs” (NEON)
  • Jomo Fray — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Justin Derry — “She Taught Love” (Andscape)
  • Lachlan Milne — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
  • Rob Hardy — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)

TELEVISION + STREAMING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Comedy Series

  • Abbott Elementary (ABC)
  • How to Die Alone (Hulu)
  • Poppa’s House (CBS)
  • The Neighborhood (CBS)
  • The Upshaws (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series

  • Cedric The Entertainer — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
  • Damon Wayans — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
  • David Alan Grier — “St. Denis Medical” (NBC)
  • Delroy Lindo — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
  • Mike Epps — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series

  • Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
  • Kerry Washington — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
  • Natasha Rothwell — “How to Die Alone” (Hulu)
  • Quinta Brunson — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • Tichina Arnold — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

  • Damon Wayans Jr. — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
  • Giancarlo Esposito — “The Gentlemen” (Netflix)
  • Kenan Thompson — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
  • Tyler James Williams — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • William Stanford Davis — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

  • Danielle Pinnock — “Ghosts” (CBS)
  • Ego Nwodim — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
  • Janelle James — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • Sheryl Lee Ralph — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • Wanda Sykes — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Drama Series

  • 9-1-1 (ABC)
  • Bel-Air (Peacock)
  • Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Found (NBC)
  • Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)

Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series

  • Aldis Hodge — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Donald Glover — “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Harold Perrineau — “FROM” (MGM+)
  • Jabari Banks — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
  • Michael Rainey Jr. — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)

Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series

  • Angela Bassett — “9-1-1” (ABC)
  • Emayatzy Corinealdi — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)
  • Queen Latifah — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
  • Shanola Hampton — “Found” (NBC)
  • Zoe Saldaña — “Lioness” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

  • Adrian Holmes — “Bel-Air” (Netflix)
  • Cliff “Method Man” Smith — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)
  • Isaiah Mustafa — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Jacob Latimore — “The Chi” (Paramount+)
  • Morris Chestnut — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

  • Adjoa Andoh — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
  • Coco Jones — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
  • Golda Rosheuvel — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
  • Lorraine Toussaint — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
  • Lynn Whitfield — “The Chi” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

  • Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
  • Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
  • Griselda (Netflix)
  • Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
  • The Madness (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

  • Aaron Pierre — “Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
  • Colman Domingo — “The Madness” (Netflix)
  • Kelvin Harrison Jr. — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
  • Kevin Hart — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
  • Laurence Fishburne — “Clipped” (FX/Hulu)

Outstanding Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

  • Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
  • Naturi Naughton — “Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie” (Lifetime)
  • Sanaa Lathan — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
  • Sofía Vergara — “Griselda” (Netflix)
  • Uzo Aduba — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

  • Don Cheadle — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
  • Luke James — “Them: The Scare” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Ron Cephas Jones — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
  • Samuel L. Jackson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
  • Terrence Howard — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

  • Brandy Norwood — “Descendants: The Rise of Red” (Disney+)
  • Jayme Lawson — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
  • Loretta Devine — “Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love” (Lifetime)
  • Sanaa Lathan — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
  • Taraji P. Henson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)

  • Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
  • Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
  • Laura Coates Live (CNN)
  • NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
  • The ReidOut (MSNBC)

Outstanding Talk Series

  • Hart to Heart (Peacock)
  • Sherri (Syndicated)
  • Tamron Hall Show (Syndicated)
  • The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)
  • The Shop Season 7 (YouTube)

Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition or Game Show (Series)

  • Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
  • Password (NBC)
  • Rhythm + Flow (Netflix)
  • The Real Housewives of Potomac (Bravo)
  • Tia Mowry: My Next Act (WeTV)

Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special)

  • BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
  • Deon Cole: Ok, Mister (Netflix)
  • Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…(Netflix)
  • Katt Williams: Woke Foke (Netflix)
  • Saturday Night Live (NBC)

Outstanding Children’s Program

  • Craig of the Creek (Cartoon Network)
  • Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
  • Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
  • Sesame Street (MAX)
  • Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin (Apple TV+)

Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited–Series)

  • Caleb Elijah — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Graceyn Hollingsworth — “Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube TV)
  • Leah Sava Jeffries — “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” (Disney+)
  • Melody Hurd — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • TJ Mixson — “The Madness” (Netflix)

Outstanding Host in a Talk or News/Information (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

  • Abby Phillip — “NewsNight with Abby Phillip” (CNN)
  • Henry Louis Gates Jr. — “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” (PBS)
  • Jennifer Hudson — “The Jennifer Hudson” (Syndicated)
  • Joy Reid — “The Reidout” (MSNBC)
  • Sherri Shepherd — “Sherri” (Syndicated)

Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

  • Alfonso Ribeiro — “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC)
  • Keke Palmer — “Password” (NBC)
  • Nick Cannon — “The Masked Singer” (FOX)
  • Steve Harvey — “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)
  • Taraji P. Henson — “BET Awards 2024” (BET Media Group)

Outstanding Guest Performance

  • Ayo Edebiri — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
  • Cree Summer — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • Keegan-Michael Key — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
  • Marlon Wayans — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
  • Maya Rudolph — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Outstanding Animated Series

  • Disney Jr.’s Ariel (Disney Jr.)
  • Everybody Still Hates Chris (Comedy Central)
  • Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
  • Iwájú (Disney+)
  • Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney Channel)

Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (Television)

  • Angela Bassett — “Orion and the Dark” (Netflix)
  • Cree Summer — “Rugrats” (Nickelodeon)
  • Cree Summer — “The Legend of Vox Machina” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Dawnn Lewis — “Star Trek: Lower Decks” (Paramount+)
  • Keke Palmer — “The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy” (Amazon Prime Video)

Outstanding Short Form Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction /Documentary

  • In the Margins (PBS)
  • NCAA Basketball on CBS Sports (CBS)
  • Roots of Resistance (PBS)
  • SC Featured (ESPN)
  • The Prince of Death Row Records (YouTube TV)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television)

  • Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
  • Diarra Kilpatrick — “Diarra From Detroit” (BET+)
  • Maurice Williams — “The Madness” (Netflix)
  • Thembi L. Banks — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
  • Vince Staples — “The Vince Staples Show” (Netflix)

RECORDING CATEGORIES

Outstanding New Artist

  • Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
  • Myles Smith (RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment)
  • Samoht (Affective Music)
  • Shaboozey (American Dogwood/Empire)
  • Tyla (Epic Records)

Outstanding Male Artist

  • Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
  • J. Cole (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
  • Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
  • October London (Death Row Records/gamma.)
  • USHER (mega/gamma.)

Outstanding Female Artist

  • Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
  • Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
  • Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
  • GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
  • H.E.R. (RCA Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album

  • “Heart of a Human” — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration)
  • “Live Breathe Fight” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
  • “Still Karen” — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel)
  • “Sunny Days” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
  • “The Maverick Way Reimagined” — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)

Outstanding International Song

  • “Close” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings)
  • “Hmmm” —  Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
  • “Jump” — Tyla (Epic Records)
  • “Love Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93)
  • “Piece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album

  • “Alright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
  • “Alter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
  • “Boy Bye” — Chlöe (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
  • “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
  • “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Album

  • “Alligator Bites Never Heal” — Doechii (Epic Records)
  • “Cape Town to Cairo” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
  • “Coming Home” — USHER (mega/gamma.)
  • “Cowboy Carter” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
  • “Glorious” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album

  • “Bob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack)” (Tuff Gong/Island Records)
  • “Genius: MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series)” (Hollywood Records)
  • “Reasonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack)” (Hollywood Records)
  • “The Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Geneva Club under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC)
  • “Wicked: The Soundtrack” (Republic Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song

  • “Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
  • “Do It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel)
  • “God Problems (Not By Power)” — (Tribl Records)
  • “I Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group)
  • “Working for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)

Outstanding Jazz Album

  • “Creole Orchestra” — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music)
  • “Epic Cool” — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music)
  • “Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies” — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jackson Records)
  • “On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute” — Matthew Whitaker (MOCAT Records)
  • “Portrait” — Samara Joy (Verve Records)

Outstanding Soul/R&B Song

  • “16 CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
  • “Here We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
  • “I Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
  • “Residuals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
  • “Saturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)

Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song

  • “Mamushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group)
  • “Murdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings)
  • “Noid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records)
  • “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
  • “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)

  • Adam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)
  • Leela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
  • Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not By Power)” (Tribl Records)
  • Muni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings)
  • Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett & Buddy McLain — “Thankful” (McLain Music, LLC)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)

  • FLO & GloRilla — “In My Bag” (Island Records)
  • GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore — “RAIN DOWN ON ME” (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
  • USHER & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.)
  • Victoria Monét feat. USHER — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
  • Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Lovett Music)

Outstanding Original Score for Television/Motion Picture

  • Challengers (Original Score) (Milan Records)
  • Dune: Part Two (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (WaterTower Music)
  • Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack) (Walt Disney Records)
  • The American Society of Magical Negroes (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Back Lot Music)
  • The Book of Clarence (Original Motion Picture Score) (Milan Records)

DOCUMENTARY CATEGORIES

Outstanding Documentary (Film)

  • Daughters (Netflix)
  • Frida (Amazon MGM Studios)
  • King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones (Freestyle Digital Media)
  • Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
  • The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)

Outstanding Documentary (Television)

  • Black Barbie: A Documentary (Netflix)
  • Black Twitter: A People’s History (Hulu)
  • Gospel (PBS)
  • Simone Biles Rising (Netflix)
  • Sprint (Netflix)

Outstanding Short Form Documentary (Film)

  • Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps (American Masters and Firelight Media)
  • Danielle Scott: Ancestral Call (American Masters and Firelight Media)
  • How to Sue the Klan
  • Judging Juries
  • Silent Killer (Kaila Love Jones Films)

WRITING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series

  • Ashley Nicole Black — Shrinking – “Changing Patterns” (Apple TV+)
  • Brittani Nichols — Abbott Elementary – “Breakup” (ABC)
  • Crystal Jenkins — No Good Deed – “Letters of Intent” (Netflix)
  • Diarra Kilpatrick — Diarra From Detroit – “Chasing Ghosts” (BET+)
  • Jordan Temple — Abbott Elementary – “Smoking” (ABC)

Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series

  • Azia Squire — Bridgerton – “Tick Tock” (Netflix)
  • Ben Watkins — Cross – “Hero Complex” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover — Mr. & Mrs. Smith – “First Date” (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Geetika Lizardi — Bridgerton – “Joining of Hands” (Netflix)
  • Lauren Gamble — Bridgerton – “Old Friends” (Netflix)

Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special

  • Brandon Espy, Carl Reid — Mr. Crocket (Hulu)
  • Bree West, Chazitear — A Wesley South African Christmas (BET+)
  • Juel Taylor, Tony Rettenmaier, Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
  • Rudy Mancuso, Dan Lagana — Música (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Tina Mabry, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Cee Marcellus — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture

  • Barry Jenkins — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
  • RaMell Ross, Joslyn Barnes — Nikel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films)
  • Titus Kaphar — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
  • Virgil Williams, Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

DIRECTING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series

  • Ayo Edebiri — The Bear – “Napkins” (FX/Hulu)
  • Bentley Kyle Evans — Mind Your Business – “The Reunion” (Bounce TV)
  • Robbie Countryman — The Upshaws – “Ain’t Broke” (Netflix)
  • Tiffany Johnson — How to Die Alone – “Trust No One” (Hulu)
  • William Smith — The Vince Staples Show – “Brown Family” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series

  • Carl Franklin — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Blame It on the Rain” (Netflix)
  • Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Protect Us” (National Geographic)
  • Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Who We Are” (National Geographic)
  • Paris Barclay — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” (Netflix)
  • Rapman — Supacell – “Supacell” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie, Documentary, or Special

  • Kelley Kali — Kemba (BET+)
  • Marcelo Gama — BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
  • Shanta Fripp — Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
  • Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free (BET+)
  • Tina Mabry — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture

  • Jeymes Samuel — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
  • Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
  • RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Reinaldo Marcus Green — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
  • Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films)

Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture)

  • Bao Nguyen — The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)
  • Dawn Porter — Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
  • Deborah Riley Draper — James Brown: Say It Loud (A&E)
  • Jason Pollard, Sam Pollard — Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys (A&E)
  • Nneka Onuorah — Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words (Amazon Prime Video)

LITERARY CATEGORIES

Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction

  • A Love Song for Ricki Wilde — Tia Williams (Grand Central Publishing – Hachette Book Group)
  • Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • Neighbors and Other Stories — Diane Oliver, Tayari Jones (Foreword) (Grove Atlantic)
  • One of Us Knows: A Thriller — Alyssa Cole (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • What You Leave Behind — Wanda M. Morris (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Nonfiction

  • A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune — Noliwe Rooks (Penguin Press – Penguin Books)
  • Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest — Fawn Weaver (Melcher Media Inc.)
  • Picturing Black History: Photographs and Stories that Changed the World — Daniela Edmeier, Damarius Johnson, Nicholas B. Breyfogle and Steven Conn (Abrams Books – Harry N. Abrams)
  • The 1619 Project: A Visual Experience — Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)
  • The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Transformed America — Larry Tye (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author

  • A Kind of Madness — Uche Okonkwo (Tin House Books)
  • AfroCentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture — Shirley Neal (HarperCollins Amistad)
  • Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • Masquerade — O.O. Sangoyomi (Forge Books – Tor Publishing Group)
  • Swift River — Essie Chambers (Simon & Schuster)

Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography

  • Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me — Whoopi Goldberg (Blackstone Publishing)
  • By the Time You Read This: The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile and Mental Illness ― Her Story in Her Own Words — Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins (Forefront Books)
  • Do It Anyway: Don’t Give Up Before It Gets Good — Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Sarah Jakes Roberts (Foreword) (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
  • Lovely One: A Memoir — Ketanji Brown Jackson (Random House)
  • Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America — Joy-Ann Reid (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional

  • Black Joy Playbook: 30 Days of Intentionally Reclaiming Your Delight — Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggets (Ink & Willow –  Penguin Random House)
  • I Did a New Thing: 30 Days to Living Free (A Feeding the Soul Book) — Tabitha Brown (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself: A Guide to Closing the Space Between Us — Chanté Griffin (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
  • Radical Self-Care: Rituals for Inner Resilience — Rebecca Moore (Author), Amberlee Green (Illustrator) (The Quarto Group/Leaping Hare Press)
  • Wash Day: Passing on the Legacy, Rituals, and Love of Natural Hair — Tomesha Faxio (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)

Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry

  • Bluff: Poems — Danez Smith (Graywolf Press)
  • Good Dress — Brittany Rogers (Tin House Books)
  • Load in Nine Times: Poems — Frank X Walker (Liveright Publishing – W.W. Norton & Company)
  • Song of My Softening — Omotara James (Alice James Books)
  • This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown and Company)

Outstanding Literary Work – Children

  • All I Need to Be — Rachel Ricketts (Author), Tiffany Rose (Illustrator) with Luana Horry (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
  • Cicely Tyson — Renée Watson (Author), Sherry Shine (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
  • Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair — Carole Boston Weatherford (Author), Ekua Holmes (Illustrator) (Candlewick Press)
  • My Hair Is a Book — Maisha Oso (Author), London Ladd (Illustrator) (HarperCollins Publishers)
  • You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book — Taraji P. Henson (Author), Paul Kellam (Illustrator) (Zonderkidz – HarperCollins)

Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens

  • American Wings: Chicago’s Pioneering Black Aviators and the Race for Equality in the Sky — Sherri L. Smith and Elizabeth Wein (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers)
  • Barracoon Adapted for Young Readers The Story of the Last Black Cargo — Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi (Adapted by), Jazzmen Lee-Johnson (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
  • Black Star: The Door of No Return — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers)
  • Brushed Between Cultures: A YA Coming of Age Novel Set in Brooklyn, New York — Samarra St. Hilaire (Samarra St. Hilaire)
  • Clutch Time: A Shot Clock Novel (Shot Clock, 2) — Caron Butler and Justin A. Reynolds (HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Graphic Novel

  • Big Jim and the White Boy: An American Classic Reimagined — David F. Walker and Marcus Kwame Anderson (Ten Speed Graphic – Penguin Random House)
  • Black Defender: The Awakening — Dr. David Washington, Mr. Zhengis Tasbolatov (Illustrator), Mr. Billy Blanks (Foreword) (Washington Comix)
  • Gamerville — Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • Ghost Roast — Shawneé Gibbs, Shawnelle Gibbs, Emily Cannon (Illustrator) (Versify – HarperCollins Publishers)
  • Punk Rock Karaoke — Bianca Xunise (Viking Books for Young Readers)

PODCAST CATEGORIES

Outstanding News and Information Podcast

  • #SundayCivics (LJW Community Strategies)
  • After the Uprising (iHeartPodcasts, Double Asterisk)
  • Into America: Uncounted Millions (MSNBC)
  • Native Land Pod (iHeartPodcasts, Reasoned Choice Media)
  • The Assignment with Audie Cornish (CNN Audio)

Outstanding Lifestyle/Self–Help Podcast

  • Balanced Black Girl (Dear Media)
  • Is This Going to Cause An Argument (Seven14Seven Media)
  • The R Spot with Iyanla (Shondaland)
  • Therapy for Black Girls (iHeartPodcasts)
  • We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)

Outstanding Society and Culture Podcast

  • Baby, This is Keke Palmer (Wondery)
  • Club Shay Shay (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
  • Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay (The Ringer)
  • We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)
  • What Now? with Trevor Noah (Spotify Studios in partnership with Day Zero Productions and Fulwell 73)

Outstanding Sports, Arts and Entertainment Podcast

  • Naked Sports with Cari Champion (The Black Effect Podcast Network)
  • Nightcap (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
  • Questlove Supreme (iHeartPodcasts)
  • R&B Money Podcast (R&B Money)
  • Two Funny Mamas (Mocha Podcasts Network)

Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form

  • About the Journey (Marriott Bonvoy, AT WILL MEDIA & mntra)
  • Squeezed with Yvette Nicole Brown (Lemonda Media)
  • Stranded (Broadway Video)
  • The Wonder of Stevie (Audible, Higher Ground and Pineapple Street Studios)
  • When We Win with Maya Rupert (Lemonada Media)

COSTUME DESIGN, MAKE–UP & HAIRSTYLING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Costume Design (Television or Film)

  • Ernesto Martinez — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
  • Megan Coates — Shirley (Netflix)
  • Gersha Phillips — The Big Cigar (Apple TV+)
  • Francine Jamison-Tanchuck — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
  • Paul Tazewell — Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Make-up (Television or Film)

  • Carol Rasheed — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
  • Debi Young — Shirley (Netflix)
  • Rebecca Lee — Shōgun (Netflix)
  • Matiki Anoff — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
  • Para Malden — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

Outstanding Hairstyling (Television or Film)

  • Terry Hunt — Bel-Air (Peacock)
  • Lawrence Davis — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
  • Nakoya Yancey — Shirley (Netflix)
  • Brian Badie — The Penguin (HBO/Max)
  • Andrea Mona Bowman — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

STUNT CATEGORY

Outstanding Stunt Ensemble (TV or Film)

  • Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
  • Grotesquerie (FX/Hulu)
  • Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
  • Red One (Amazon MGM Studios)
  • Them: The Scare (Amazon Prime Video)

Godfather Of Harlem Season 4

First look images of Godfather of Harlemseason 4 have finally been released, offering a glimpse at Forrest Whitaker’s return as the infamous Bumpy Johnson. Debuted in 2019 on Epix, and now streaming on MGM+, the acclaimed drama portrays Johnson’s efforts to reclaim control of Harlem during the 1960s. Godfather of Harlem season 4 promises toraise the stakes as Bumpy continues to wage war against the New York Mafia and faces a shifting power dynamic in the criminal underworld.

Via Collider, the newly revealed images show Bumpy Johnson alongside key returning cast members, including Ilfenesh Hadera, Antoinette Crowe-Legacy, Demi Singleton, and Jason Alan Carvell. Additionally, new cast member Rome Flynn joins the series as the infamous gangster Frank Lucas. Season 4, set for release nearly two years after season 3’s release in Spring 2025, will continue exploring the turbulent intersection between crime and politics in the 1960s. Check out the new images, below:

JOEY KING AND COOPER KOCH TO ANNOUNCE NOMINATIONS FOR THE 31st ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS

SAG Award nominated actress Joey King (A Family Affair, We Were The Lucky Ones) and Golden Globe Nominated actor Cooper Koch (Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, They/Them) will unveil the nominees for the 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. The nominations will be streamed exclusively on Netflix’s YouTube channel, beginning at 10:30 a.m. ET / 7:30 a.m. PT.

The announcement will kick off with the nominations for Outstanding Action Performances in a Stunt Ensemble by SAG Awards Committee membersJason George and Elizabeth McLaughlin. Following the presentation, SAG-AFTRA PresidentFran Drescher will officially kick off the live event. 

Award-winning actress and producer Kristen Bell will host the annual ceremony, and legendary actress and activist Jane Fonda will be presented with the Life Achievement Award, SAG-AFTRA’s highest honor.

The 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, produced by Silent House Productions in partnership with SAG-AFTRA, will stream live globally on Netflix Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT from the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall.

ABOUT THE SAG AWARDS

One of awards season’s premier events, the SAG Awards annually celebrates the outstanding motion picture and television performances of the year. Voted on by SAG-AFTRA’s robust and diverse membership of 122,000+ performers, the SAG Awards has the largest voting body on the awards circuit. Beloved for its style, simplicity, and genuine warmth, the show has become an industry favorite and one of the most prized honors since its debut in 1995.

ABOUT SILENT HOUSE PRODUCTIONS

Silent House Group, which was recently named one of GQ’s 20 most creative companies in the world, is comprised of three divisions – Silent House Productions, Silent House Studios, and Silent House Events – which together form the global award-winning  production company, design studio, and creative agency that stages and produces large scale global events. Silent House Productions produced the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, NocheUFC at Las Vegas Sphere, and won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) for their work on Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love, in addition to four other Emmy nominations for the special, and produced the 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, which marked Netflix’s first-ever live awards show. Additionally, the award-winning team produced the Golden Globe-nominated film Taylor Swift I The Eras Tour in partnership with Taylor Swift Productions, among other notable projects. For more information, please visit: https://www.silent-house.com/productions  

ABOUT NETFLIX

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services, with 283 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

LOVE ME – OFFICIAL TRAILER

In a story that spans billions of years, a buoy and a satellite meet online long after humanity’s extinction. As they learn what life was like on Earth, they discover themselves and what it means to be alive and in love. In this groundbreaking first feature from directors Sam and Andy Zuchero, Love Me explores contemporary topics surrounding technology and identity, though at its heart is a simple, emotionally resonant tale of transformation. Thrillingly utilizing filmmaking techniques from live-action, practical animatronics, classic animation and game engines, and anchored in enthralling performances by Stewart and Yeun, Love Me culminates in the longest-spanning love story ever told.

This Sundance breakout film stars Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun, written and directed by visionary filmmakers Sam Zuchero and Andy Zuchero, and will debut only in theaters on January 31st. 

82ND ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES® RED CARPET ROLLOUT EVENT RECAP

The Golden Globes® hosted its red carpet rollout for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® on Thursday, January 2 at The Beverly Hilton. Attendees included comedian, actress and first-time Golden Globes® hostNikki Glaser along with producers and executives including Glenn Weiss(Showrunner, Executive Producer, and Director), Ricky Kirshner (Showrunner and Executive Producer), Helen Hoehne(Golden Globes President), and Barry Adelman (Executive Producer).

The event included remarks by Golden Globes President Helen Hoehne and Golden Globes Host Nikki Glaser. Attendees got a preview of the stage design and mock up of seat card placements. Please note that seat card placements are subject to change. 

The 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, the first major award show of the season, will air live on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET on CBS and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).*

Multi-Emmy Award®-winning producing duo Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner of White Cherry Entertainment (WCE) will return as executive producing showrunners for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®.  Dick Clark Productions will plan, host and produce the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, which has been viewed in more than 185 countries and territories worldwide.