Usher Named Entertainer of the Year at 55th NAACP Awards
LOS ANGELES — Usher was named entertainer of the year at the 55th annual NAACP Awards on Saturday night, highlighting the works of entertainers and writers of color. The superstar R&B singer accepted his award at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, expressing gratitude for his successful three-decade-long career.
During his acceptance speech, Usher reflected on his recent accomplishments, including a sold-out residency in Las Vegas, releasing his ninth studio album “Coming Home,” and his record-breaking Super Bowl halftime performance. He beat out tough competition from Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer for the coveted award.
Presented the award by Oprah Winfrey, Usher thanked his supporters throughout the years, acknowledging the importance of their unwavering support. He dedicated his win to his fans, affectionately calling them his “number ones.”
Earlier in the ceremony, Usher was honored with the President’s Award for his public service achievements through his New Look Foundation. He expressed gratitude for the strong women in his life, including his mother and wife Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married following his Super Bowl performance.
Queen Latifah hosted the awards ceremony, which aired live on BET. “The Color Purple” took home the award for best motion picture, with Fantasia Barrino winning best actress for her role in the film.
New Edition was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, recognizing their pioneering contributions to the music industry. The group members, including Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe, and Ricky Bell, shared their journey from overcoming conflicts to achieving success, including a Las Vegas residency.
Damson Idris, Taraji P. Henson, and Colman Domingo were among the other notable winners at the event, celebrating the remarkable talents and achievements of artists of color in the entertainment industry.
Overall, the 55th NAACP Awards showcased the diverse and exceptional contributions of entertainers and writers of color, reaffirming the importance of representation and recognition in the industry. Usher’s win as entertainer of the year cements his legacy as a trailblazing artist with an enduring impact on the music and entertainment world.