The first round of the 2025 NAACP Image Awards was celebrated in a virtual ceremony on Tuesday night, showcasing an array of talent across various categories. Notable winners included Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, which claimed two awards for best supporting actress and actor, as well as the children's show Gracie’s Corner. Other highlights included Jamie Foxx's comedy special, Tina Mabry's direction in a TV movie, and Tiffany Johnson's directing in a comedy series. The event also spotlighted efforts to support communities affected by recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The main televised ceremony will air on BET and CBS this Saturday.

The evening began with accolades for outstanding performances and creative achievements. Taraji P. Henson and Samuel L. Jackson were honored for their roles in Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, while Gracie’s Corner received recognition for its excellence in children's programming. Jamie Foxx's special What Had Happened Was... won for outstanding variety show, and Ayo Edebiri from The Bear was recognized for her breakthrough performance. Additionally, Tina Mabry's direction in The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat garnered praise, as did Tiffany Johnson's work in How to Die Alone.

The awards extended beyond entertainment, acknowledging significant contributions in literature and non-fiction. Books such as One of Us Knows: A Thriller by Alyssa Cole and Love & Whiskey by Fawn Weaver were celebrated for their compelling narratives. In the literary world, debut authors like Sarai Johnson and Uche Okonkwo were highlighted for their impactful works. Biographies and autobiographies, including JoyAnn Reid's Medgar and Myrlie, were also honored, reflecting the rich tapestry of Black history and culture.

Furthermore, the NAACP partnered with local organizations to launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aiming to assist homeowners and preserve cultural heritage in areas affected by wildfires. This initiative underscores the organization's commitment to community welfare alongside celebrating artistic excellence. The partnership includes collaborations with Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA, ensuring comprehensive support for those impacted.

In addition to the virtual ceremony, more winners will be announced on Wednesday, leading up to the Creative Honors on Friday. The grand televised event is set for Saturday at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, featuring honorees such as Dave Chappelle, Kamala Harris, and the Wayans family. The ceremony promises to be a celebration of achievement, resilience, and community spirit, reflecting the NAACP's ongoing dedication to promoting diversity and excellence in media and beyond.