The NAACP has officially unveiled the nominees for the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, celebrating excellence across film, television, music, literature, and digital media. This year’s list reflects the power, creativity, and cultural influence of Black artists and storytellers across multiple industries.
Leading the charge in the film categories is “Sinners,” which secured an impressive 18 nominations, making it the most nominated motion picture of the year. Close behind is “Highest 2 Lowest” with nine nods. On the television front, “Bel-Air” emerged as a top contender with seven nominations, followed closely by “Abbott Elementary,” “Reasonable Doubt,” and “Ruth & Boaz,” each earning six. “Forever” rounded out the leading shows with five nominations.
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Among streaming platforms, Netflix dominated the field with a total of 47 nominations, underscoring its strong presence in Black-led content across genres.
Entertainer of the Year
Five trailblazing artists are vying for the coveted Entertainer of the Year title:
- Cynthia Erivo
- Doechii
- Kendrick Lamar
- Michael B. Jordan
- Teyana Taylor
Each nominee has delivered standout performances and projects over the past year, shaping pop culture and inspiring audiences worldwide.
Award Ceremony Details
Select category winners will be revealed during a two-hour live broadcast on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The ceremony will air simultaneously on BET and CBS beginning at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
This year’s theme, “We See You,” emphasizes visibility, recognition, and empowerment within the Black community, honoring both established icons and rising stars.
Film Highlights
“Sinners” dominates several major categories, including:
- Outstanding Motion Picture
- Outstanding Actor (Michael B. Jordan)
- Outstanding Supporting Actor (Delroy Lindo, Miles Caton)
- Outstanding Supporting Actress (Jayme Lawson, Wunmi Mosaku)
- Outstanding Ensemble Cast
- Outstanding Original Score
- Outstanding Cinematography
- Outstanding Costume Design
- Outstanding Hair Styling
- Outstanding Editing
- Outstanding Stunt Ensemble
Other major contenders include “Wicked: For Good,” “One of Them Days,” “Sarah’s Oil,” and “Highest 2 Lowest.”
Television Standouts
Top-nominated series include:
- Bel-Air (Peacock)
- Abbott Elementary (ABC)
- Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)
- Ruth & Boaz (Netflix)
- Forever (Netflix)
Fan-favorite performers recognized this year include Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, Queen Latifah, Sterling K. Brown, Jabari Banks, and Emayatzy Corinealdi.
Music Categories
The music field features powerhouse artists across genres:
Outstanding Female Artist
- Alex Isley
- Cardi B
- Doechii
- SZA
- Teyana Taylor
Outstanding Male Artist
- Bryson Tiller
- Chris Brown
- GIVĒON
- Kendrick Lamar
- Leon Thomas
Outstanding New Artist
- Elmiene
- Lee Vasi
- Madison McFerrin
- Monaleo
- Ravyn Lenae
Outstanding International Song
- Skip Marley
- Tyla
- Burna Boy
- Davido ft. Omah Lay
- Tiwa Savage
Literary Excellence
The awards also celebrate Black authors across multiple categories, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, youth literature, biographies, and instructional works. Notable nominees include Michelle Obama, Kamala Harris, Nnedi Okorafor, Victoria Christopher Murray, Dawn Staley, and Anela Malik.
Digital Creators & Podcasts
Content creators and podcasters continue to shine, with nominations going to personalities such as:
- IShowSpeed
- Jackie Aina
- Keith Lee
- Jemele Hill
- Trevor Noah
- Michelle Obama
- Don Lemon
A Celebration of Black Excellence
From blockbuster films to viral digital creators, the 2026 NAACP Image Awards reflect the evolving landscape of Black creativity and influence. With Sinners setting the pace and industry icons competing across categories, this year’s ceremony promises unforgettable moments and well-deserved recognition.
