March 5th 2024.
It's official - Queen Latifah is making a grand return to host the NAACP Image Awards for the second year in a row! The legendary actress, artist, and entrepreneur will be taking the stage as the master of ceremonies for the 55th annual award show, which is set to honor notable figures such as Amanda Gorman and June Ambrose. Mark your calendars, because the awards will be airing live on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS.
The exciting news was announced on Tuesday, March 5, by the NAACP Image Awards. With Queen Latifah at the helm, Gorman will be receiving the prestigious Chairman's Award for her outstanding work as an award-winning writer, inaugural poet, and activist. Meanwhile, Ambrose will be receiving the Vanguard Award for her remarkable contributions as an award-winning creative director and costume designer.
"We are beyond thrilled to join forces with the groundbreaking Queen Latifah and are honored to have her back as this year's host! We are also eagerly looking forward to recognizing the impact of change-makers like Amanda Gorman and fashion icon June Ambrose on culture," says Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET.
Orlando continues, "Queen Latifah, NAACP, and Pastis have been amazing partners in amplifying Black culture, excellence, creativity, and ingenuity, and this year's show promises to be just as unforgettable."
The Chairman's Award is bestowed upon individuals who exemplify exceptional public service and use their platforms to inspire positive change. Gorman's recognition with this esteemed award follows in the footsteps of notable figures such as U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Samuel L. Jackson, the late U.S. Congressman John Lewis and Ruby Dee, Danny Glover, Rev. James Lawson, Tyler Perry, then-Senator Barack Obama, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and former Surgeon General Regina Benjamin.
Speaking on Gorman's well-deserved honor, Leon W. Russell, Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors, says, "Amanda Gorman is a shining light among our nation's brightest young voices, and she has become a powerful force in inspiring a new generation of leaders through her advocacy efforts and poetic brilliance. With her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to enacting positive change, Gorman continues to make a lasting impact on the literary and social landscape, proving that words have the power to shape a better future."
Meanwhile, June Ambrose will be celebrated for her decades-long career of creating iconic looks for some of the biggest names in music, film, and sports, as well as her business acumen. As a fashion icon and cultural trailblazer, Ambrose has not only shaped the visual landscape of popular culture but has also elevated the conversation around diversity and inclusion in the world of fashion and entertainment.
"June Ambrose's multifaceted contributions have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, transcending the boundaries of style and paving the way for a more diverse and dynamic industry," says Karen Boykin-Towns, Vice Chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors and Chairman of the Image Awards Committee.
In addition to Gorman and Ambrose, some categories for the 2024 NAACP Image Awards will be televised, while others will be recognized during the Awards Dinner on March 14th and Fashion Show on March 15th.
So, make sure to tune in on March 16th to catch all the exciting action, including performances and appearances by some of the biggest names in entertainment. And as for the future of Queen Latifah, she shows no signs of slowing down, with her upcoming projects including hosting the NAACP Image Awards and the highly anticipated release of her new film. Stay tuned for more updates!
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