The 56th NAACP Image Awards have begun. The ceremony, hosted by actor and comedian Deon Cole, is being broadcast live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, airing on BET and CBS. The theme for this year’s show is, “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.” Queen Latifah was named the first winner of the evening, nabbing the outstanding actress in a drama series for her performance in “The Equalizer.” Meanwhile, Michael Rainey Jr. took home the Image Award for outstanding actor in a drama series for “Power Book II: Ghost.” In addition to announcing the 2025 winners, the ceremony is driving support for the Altadena, Pacific Palisades and Pasadena communities affected by the recent wildfires. Several Altadena residents received a standing ovation as they walked on stage. Multiple nominees of the 56th
