Angela Bassett, ‘Wakanda Forever’ tops NAACP Image Awards

PASADENA, Calif. (AP) — Angela Bassett won Entertainer of the Year on Saturday NAACP Image Awards A night that saw him take home an acting trophy for the television series “9-1-1”.

Bassett-led Marvel superhero sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” won Best Motion Picture at the ceremony, which was broadcast live on BET from Pasadena, California.

Viola Davis won Outstanding Actress for it Action epic “The Woman King,” A project he championed and starred in. Will Smith Slavery won for drama “Deliverance,” his first release since last year’s Academy Awards, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage before winning his first best actor trophy.

“I never want to be brave enough as a woman, as a black woman, as an artist,” Davis said, referencing a quote from her character in the film, which she calls her magnum opus. “I thank everyone involved with ‘The Woman King’ because it was nothing but high-octane adventure.”

“Abbott Elementary” won for Outstanding Comedy Series. Creator and series star Quinta Brunson invited his costars on stage and credited shows like “Black-ish” for paving the way for his series.

The 54th NAACP Image Awards were presented Saturday in Pasadena, California, with Queen Latifah hosting. Serena Williams received the Jackie Robinson Sports Awardwhich recognizes athletes for high achievements in the field of sports, including the pursuit of social justice, civil rights and community involvement.

The event, which honors entertainers, athletes and writers of color, was hosted by Queen Latifah. Special honorees included Dwyane Wade and Gabriel Union and civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

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