The iconic Wayans family, known for their groundbreaking work in film, television, sketch, and stand-up comedy, will be celebrated at this year’s NAACP Image Awards. The announcement was made on Thursday, recognizing the family’s significant contributions to entertainment and employment in Hollywood.
Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans, and Damon Wayans Jr. are set to be inducted into the NAACP Awards’ Hall of Fame. Their collective resume includes hits like the sketch comedy series “In Living Color,” which Keenen Ivory Wayans created in 1990, and “Major Payne,” where Damon Wayans starred in 1995.
Keenen Ivory Wayans also helmed the 2000 comedy “Scary Movie,” penned by Marlon and Shawn Wayans, who later collaborated on “White Chicks” in 2004. Currently, Damon Wayans and his son Damon Wayans Jr. star in the CBS sitcom “Poppa’s House,” which is nominated for an NAACP Award along with individual acting nominations for both.
Damon Wayans Jr. has also made a mark with roles in the critically acclaimed series “Happy Endings” and “New Girl.” Kim Wayans has been lauded for her performances, including in the 2011 drama “Pariah.”
Marlon Wayans is recognized for his guest role on Peacock’s “Bel-Air,” which has also earned him a nomination.
The NAACP Image Awards celebrate excellence among people of color in the fields of acting, music, and literature. Past inductees into the Hall of Fame include luminaries like Lena Horne, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Oprah Winfrey, and Spike Lee.
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast live on BET and CBS from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22.
Key Points
Wayans Family Honored: Keenen Ivory, Damon Sr., Marlon, Shawn, Kim, and Damon Jr. Wayans will be inducted into the NAACP Awards’ Hall of Fame.
Entertaining Legacy: Known for their work in film, TV, sketch, and stand-up comedy, creating jobs in Hollywood.
Notable Works:
“In Living Color” (Keenen Ivory Wayans)
“Major Payne” (Damon Wayans Sr.)
“Scary Movie” and “White Chicks” (Marlon and Shawn Wayans)
“Poppa’s House” (Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr.)
NAACP Nominations: “Poppa’s House” and performances by Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., plus Marlon Wayans’ guest role on “Bel-Air.”
NAACP Image Awards: Celebrating achievements by people of color in acting, music, and writing.
Awards Broadcast: 56th NAACP Image Awards on February 22, live on BET and CBS from Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
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