NAACP Image Awards: 5 Films/Shows From Keke Palmer That Shows Her Range
Keke Palmer has never just shown up—she’s always shown out.
From her early days as a scene-stealing child star to becoming a full-blown multimedia boss, she’s built a career that refuses to be boxed in. With her own digital network, KeyTV, the rising actress is not just the talent, but the visionary, creating space for new voices while still shining front and center.
She’s also no stranger to winning. Keke has collected eight NAACP Image Awards over the years, including the coveted Entertainer of the Year title, which is proof that the culture sees her, celebrates her, and rides for her. And what makes it even better? We’re watching her evolve in real time—bolder, smarter, funnier, and more powerful with every era.
These five projects show exactly how wide her range really is.
True Jackson, VP
When "True Jackson, VP" hit Nickelodeon, it quietly made history. Palmer became one of the first young Black girls many kids saw running a major fashion company on TV.
She played a teenage CEO who was confident, creative, and still very much a kid, showing young Black viewers that success didn’t have to mean losing your joy.
True proved you could be full of life, stylish, funny and still be the boss.
Akeelah and the Bee
"Akeelah and the Bee" wasn’t just a movie, but it was a moment for Black families.
Palmer’s performance as a brilliant girl from South L.A. made excellence feel accessible, not intimidating. She showed that intelligence, confidence, and community could exist in the same space.
The film became a cultural staple, especially in classrooms and Black households, reminding us that our stories of brilliance deserve the spotlight.
Nope
In "Nope," Keke stepped into a more grounded, intense lane. Her character brought humor, heart, and grit into a story that leaned dark and mysterious.
She balanced sharp comedic timing with emotional weight, never letting the film become too heavy or too playful.
It was proof that Keke could carry suspense just as well as she carries comedy.
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One Of Them Days
"One of Them Days" showed Palmer in full “let me show you how it’s done” mode.
Acting alongside SZA, who was new to film, Keke didn’t overshadow her, she elevated her.
Their chemistry felt natural, playful, and real, making both of them shine. The singer balanced humor with emotional depth, proving she can anchor a film while still making room for someone else to grow.
It was range, leadership, and star power all in one.
The Pick-Up
Sharing the screen with Eddie Murphy is no small task, but Palmer didn’t just hold her own, she stole scenes.
Every moment they shared felt electric, with the actress matching his energy beat for beat.
She played her character with confidence, control, and undeniable presence.
In a film with a legend, Keke still walked away looking like one.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards on BET and CBS on Feb. 28, 2026.
