Wayans Family to Be Inducted into NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame

The NAACP Image Awards will honor the Wayans family with induction into its prestigious Hall of Fame during the 56th annual ceremony, airing live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year’s broadcast, held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, will be extended to 2.5 hours to accommodate the expanded celebration.

The Hall of Fame Award recognizes individuals and groups whose pioneering contributions have left a lasting impact on their industries. Previous inductees include entertainment icons such as Oprah Winfrey, Eddie Murphy, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Spike Lee. The Wayans family’s influence across film, television, and comedy makes them a fitting addition to this distinguished list.

“For decades, the Wayans family has been at the forefront of comedy, breaking barriers and opening doors for waves of entertainers,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “Their trailblazing work in television, film, and stand-up has transcended pop culture and cemented their legacy in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.”

A Legacy of Innovation and Influence

The Wayans family revolutionized comedy by blending sharp cultural commentary with fearless humor. Keenen Ivory Wayans led the charge as the creator of In Living Color, the groundbreaking sketch comedy series that launched the careers of Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez. The show set a new standard for diversity in comedy and cemented the Wayans family’s place in entertainment history.

Beyond television, Keenen’s directorial work on Scary Movie and I’m Gonna Git You Sucka pushed boundaries, proving that Black filmmakers could achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. His contributions inspired a new generation of Black creators in Hollywood.

Damon Wayans Sr. solidified his status as a comedy icon with Saturday Night Live, Major Payne, and My Wife and Kids. Marlon and Shawn Wayans co-created and starred in The Wayans Bros. and helmed hit films including White Chicks, Little Man, and Scary Movie. The family’s comedic footprint also extends to Dance Flick, a film directed by Damien Dante Wayans and featuring multiple Wayans family members in key creative roles.

Kim Wayans, known for her acting and producing, helped shape the family’s storytelling legacy, while Damon Wayans Jr. has carried it forward with standout roles in Happy Endings, New Girl, and Shrinking.

Continuing the Family’s Entertainment Legacy

The Wayans dynasty remains as influential as ever. Marlon Wayans continues to expand his range, earning critical acclaim for his dramatic performances in Respect and Air. He also earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for his role in Bel-Air and is set to star in Jordan Peele’s upcoming film HIM, set for release in September 2025. Meanwhile, Keenen, Marlon, and Shawn are reviving Scary Movie, with a reboot slated for June 12, 2026.

Damon Wayans Sr. and Damon Wayans Jr. recently made history as the first father-son duo to be nominated in the same year at the NAACP Image Awards. Both received nods for their work in the CBS sitcom Poppa’s House.

A Celebration of Black Excellence

As the NAACP Image Awards continue to spotlight Black artists and innovators, this year’s ceremony also recognizes those affected by recent California wildfires. The NAACP and BET Media Group have partnered with local organizations to establish the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aiming to protect homeowners from displacement and preserve cultural heritage.

Viewers can vote for winners in select categories by visiting www.naacpimageawards.net. Winners will be announced during the live broadcast on February 22, with additional honorees recognized in non-televised categories on February 18 and 19 via YouTube.

The NAACP Image Awards remain one of the most prestigious celebrations of Black talent, with past honorees including Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Angela Bassett, Zendaya, and Issa Rae. By inducting the Wayans family into its Hall of Fame, the NAACP continues its tradition of honoring those who have reshaped the cultural landscape.