2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Times Damon Wayans Jr. Proved the Family Comedy Legacy is in Good Hands
The Wayans family has long been synonymous with comedy royalty, and Damon Wayans Jr. continues to prove that the family’s talent runs deep. With his comedic style—a blend of wit and a dash of heartfelt sincerity, the second-generation comedian has carved out his own lane in the entertainment industry.
This year, he’s earned a well-deserved NAACP Image Awards 2025 nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his hilarious and scene-stealing role on the CBS sitcom “Poppa’s House.”
As we count down to the NAACP Image Awards—airing February 22, 2025, at 8 PM—let’s celebrate the comedian’s brilliance by revisiting five must-watch roles. From “Happy Endings” to “Poppa’s House,” Damon Jr. continues to uphold the family legacy with humor and charm.
Brad Williams / Happy Endings
Whether he was dancing with reckless abandon or delivering hilarious one-liners,
Damon Wayans Jr.’s portrayal of Brad Williams on ABC’s “Happy Endings” quickly became a fan favorite and cemented his status as a sitcom star.
Justin Miller / Let’s Be Cops
In the 2014 buddy comedy “Let’s Be Cops,” Damon teamed up with Jake Johnson to play Justin Miller, a down-on-his-luck video game designer who inadvertently gets wrapped up in a ridiculous scheme.
The film thrives on Damon’s chemistry with Johnson, and his ability to deliver laughs while navigating increasingly absurd situations proves his star power on the big screen.
Thomas Uncles / Dance Flick
In this parody film created by the Wayans family, Damon portrays Thomas Uncles—a hilariously awkward character with a passion for street dancing. “Dance Flick” allowed him to flex his comedic muscles in a setting that pays homage to the family’s signature spoof style.
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Detective Fosse / The Other Guys
Even in a minor role, Damon’s comedic chops shone brightly in “The Other Guys,” starring Hollywood veterans Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg. Damon left audiences laughing as Detective Fosse with his scene-stealing moments—a testament to his ability to make a big impact, regardless of screen time.
Damon / Poppa’s House
Damon lights up the screen on CBS's Poppa’s House. The sitcom follows legendary talk radio host Poppa, played by the actor’s real-life father and legend, Damon Wayans Sr., whose traditional views are hilariously challenged by his new co-host, psychologist Dr. Ivy Reed.
At home, Poppa navigates life with his adult son, Junior, an aspiring filmmaker balancing family and creative ambitions. Wayans Jr.’s standout performance brings humor and heart to this generational comedy.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.