The NAACP has announced that the Wayans family will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame during the 56th annual ceremony on February 22, 2025. This honor recognizes their groundbreaking contributions to film, television, and comedy. The family includes Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans, and Damon Wayans Jr.
Wayans Family: Trailblazers in Comedy and Entertainment
Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, stated, “For decades, the Wayans family has been at the forefront of comedy, breaking barriers and opening doors for waves of entertainers.” He emphasized that their work has “transcended pop culture and cemented their legacy in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.”
The Wayans family’s impact began with “In Living Color,” the 1990 sketch comedy series created by Keenen Ivory Wayans. The show not only launched the careers of the Wayans siblings but also introduced audiences to talents like Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, and Jennifer Lopez.
Their film contributions include “Scary Movie,” directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans and co-written by Marlon and Shawn Wayans, and “White Chicks,” also written by Marlon and Shawn. These films showcased their unique blend of humor and cultural commentary.
Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming, and Music Strategy at BET, noted, “The Wayans family revolutionized comedy by blending cultural commentary and fearless humor.” She added that their influence has “left an undeniable mark on the industry.”
Currently, Damon Wayans Sr. and Damon Wayans Jr. co-star in the CBS sitcom “Poppa’s House,” which has received an NAACP Image Award nomination. Marlon Wayans is also nominated for his guest appearance on Peacock’s “Bel-Air.”
The NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame honors individuals and groups who have been pioneers in their fields. Past inductees include Lena Horne, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Oprah Winfrey, and Spike Lee. The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS.
This induction celebrates the Wayans family’s multi-generational legacy and their ongoing influence in advancing and uplifting communities through entertainment.