The NAACP announced on Thursday (Feb. 13) that the Wayans family would be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame during the 2025 NAACP Image Awards on Feb. 22. The broadcast will be extended by 30 minutes in honor of the historic moment.
Per the organization, the Hall of Fame Award is “presented to individuals or groups who have been pioneers in their respective fields and whose influence continues to shape their industry for generations.” Past inductees include New Edition, Eddie Murphy, Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Spike Lee, Earth Wind and Fire and more.
“For decades, the Wayans family has been at the forefront of comedy, breaking barriers and opening doors for waves of entertainers,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “Their trailblazing work in television, film, and stand-up has transcended pop culture and cemented their legacy in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. Recognizing their achievements with this induction is a celebration of a multi-generational legacy that continues to advance and uplift communities. The Wayans family has set a standard of excellence, and their influence resonates far beyond the stage and screen.”
(L-R): Shawn, Marlon, Keenen Ivory, and Damon Wayans
David Keeler/Online USA
Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming and Music Strategy at BET, added, “The Wayans family revolutionized comedy by blending cultural commentary and fearless humor. From In Living Color to blockbuster films, their influence spans generations, breaking barriers for Black entertainers and redefining mainstream comedy. Their ability to push boundaries while resonating with diverse audiences has left an undeniable mark on the industry. We look forward to honoring their impact by inducting the Wayans Family into the NAACP Hall of Fame live on BET, while celebrating their legacy in entertainment and culture.”
The Wayans family have been a transformative, pioneering staple with entertainment for decades—notably since Keenen Ivory Wayans created the disruptive and ingenious sketch comedy series, In Living Color. It wasn’t long before we were introduced to the talents of his siblings: Damon Sr., Kim, Marlon, and Shawn, as well as the generational talent of their children.
Marlon, Damon Sr. and Damon Jr. are all nominees at this year’s ceremony, with the latter two making history as the first father-son duo nominated for their performances in Poppa’s House.
The Wayans family is also set to return to their Scary Movie franchise in June 2026.
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