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2025 NAACP Image Awards: Meet the Entertainer of the Year Nominees

Tune into the celebration when it airs live on Feb 22, 2025, on BET and CBS.

The countdown to the NAACP Image Awards 2025 is on! 

One of the night’s most coveted honors is the Entertainer of the Year Award, recognizing individuals who have captivated audiences with their exceptional talent and influence. 

This year’s nominees are nothing short of phenomenal—each bringing their unique flair to music, film, television, and beyond. Let’s take a closer look at the five extraordinary stars in the running for this prestigious title.

And don’t forget to tune into the NAACP Image Awards 2025, airing live on February 22, 2025, on BET and CBS!

  • Keke Palmer

    Keke Palmer’s career is nothing short of iconic.  The former child star made history at the 2024 Emmy Awards by becoming the first Black woman to win Outstanding Game Show Host for NBC's “Password.” 

    As a producer and media mogul, Keke continues to push boundaries with her digital platform, “KeyTV,” empowering young creatives. Her dynamic presence and unwavering authenticity make her a fan favorite.

  • Kendrick Lamar

    Few artists have had the cultural impact of Kendrick Lamar. The West Coast legend continued his reign in 2024 thanks to a historic rap battle that delivered a series of hit records and earned the emcee 5 Grammy nominations. The “Not Like Us” emcee’s ability to inspire change through art makes him a deserving nominee.

  • Cynthia Erivo

    From her Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway to her powerful film roles and stirring music career, London-born star Cynthia Erivo continues to prove she’s a force to be reckoned with. 

    In 2024, she captivated audiences with her lead role in the biographical drama “Aretha Franklin: Queen of Soul” before starring in the box office smash, “Wicked.” Erivo’s ability to command both stage and screen makes her a top contender for Entertainer of the Year.

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  • Shannon Sharpe

    Shannon Sharpe has proven he’s more than just a sports analyst—he’s a cultural trailblazer. 

    In 2024, the former Denver Bronco star took his popular show “Club Shay Shay” to new heights, featuring in-depth interviews with everyone from athletes to entertainers.

    Sharpe's impact reaches far beyond sports, inspiring and shaping the perspectives of generations to come.

  • Kevin Hart

    Kevin Hart’s hustle is unmatched. In 2024, the veteran comedian made us laugh out loud during “The Roast of Tom Brady” and got into his action bag with the films “Lift” and “Borderlands.”

    As a producer and philanthropist, Kevin continues to give back to the community through his foundation, making him a beloved figure both on and off the stage.

    Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET and CBS.

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