Queen Latifah will host the 55th NAACP Image Awards

The 55th NAACP Image Awards return for one more 12 months of celebrating Black excellence and recognizing the high achievements of changemakers.

Multi-talented musician and actress Queen Latifah will return to host the annual ceremony, which will air live this month on BET and CBS.

“The NAACP Image Awards are an important celebration for our community and industry every year. We have the opportunity to highlight the major achievements of artists, writers, animators, activists and other changemakers who are moving Black excellence forward in powerful ways,” said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson.

Amanda Gorman attracted national attention as a beacon of hope and inspiration after reciting her poem “The Hill We Climb” at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration. The award-winning creator, inaugural poet and activist will receive the prestigious Chairman’s Award for outstanding efforts in public service and using your platform to advocate for change.

Costume designer June Ambrose will even be honored and recognized at the ceremony for her groundbreaking contributions to costume design and fashion in the entertainment industry. Known for designing the costumes for Hype Williams’ 1998 film “Belly” and styling influential artists corresponding to Missy Elliott and Jay Z, Ambrose will take home this 12 months’s Vanguard Award.

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“We are thrilled to be working with breakout megastar Queen Latifah and are thrilled to welcome her back as this year’s host! We also look forward to honoring changemaker and poet Amanda Gorman and fashion icon June Ambrose for their profound cultural impact,” said Connie Orlando, vp of specials and music strategy at BET. “Queen Latifah, the NAACP and Pastis have been incredible partners in amplifying black culture, excellence, creativity and ingenuity, and this year’s unforgettable show will be no different.”

The NAACP Image Awards will also honor the outstanding achievements of other Black pioneers who’re making an impact in 80 categories: film, television, streaming, music, literature and podcasts.

Previous winners include Angela Bassett, Will Smith, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E. Carter, Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Nia Long, Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown and lots of other industry powerhouses.

The celebratory event will air on Saturday, March 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS.