On Sunday Feb. 22
Today, the NAACP revealed that the iconic and comedic Wayans Brothers will be inducted into the 56th NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. The family began their climb to stardom in the early 1990s with Keenan Ivory Wayans establishing the family’s name in Hollywood as he hosted and starred in “In Living Color”, breaking a multitude of intersectional barriers in the entertainment industry and pop culture.
The show was an urban pop cultural hit, creating pathways for his other siblings, such as Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Kim Wayans, and Damon Wayans, to gain careers as actors and comedians in Hollywood. The comedy sketch show also was the birthplace for stars such as Jamie Foxx and Jim Carrey. Pop singer and actress Jennifer Lopez also broke into the entertainment industry through “In Living Color”.
With a plethora of films and television sitcoms such as “The Wayans Bros,” “Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood,” “White Chicks,” “My Wife and Kids,” “Scary Movie” film series, and “Little Man,” the Wayans family has created a career in entertainment that has spanned over three decades.
“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,” said Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming, and Music Strategy at BET.
She added, “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.”
Others who have received the NAACP Image Hall of Fame award include Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder, Lena Horne, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, and more.
Each member of the Wayans family has a great resume when it comes to their work in the entertainment industry. Kim Wayans is a writer, producer, and actress known for film and television roles in projects such as “A Low Down Dirty Shame,” “Reckless,” and “A Different World.” Damon Wayans Sr. is a comedian, writer, actor, and producer known for works such as “Major Payne,” “My Wife and Kids,” and “In Living Color.” He gained his first recurring roles playing multiple characters on Saturday Night Live (SNL). Damon Jr. has continued to uphold his family’s comedic legacy with his notable roles in “Let’s Be Cops,” “New Girl,” “Happy Endings,” and “Poppa’s House.”.
Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans also starred in and co-created “The Wayans Brothers.”. Marlon also extended his acting chops with his most recent performance in “Respect and Air” and as the character Lou in “Bel Air.”
“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.
He added, “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.”
A notable moment in award history, especially for Black entertainers, Damon Sr. and Damon Jr. are the first father-son duo nominated for “Poppa House.”. Damon Sr. is nominated for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series, and Damon Jr. is nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
The “Scary Movie” film is making its return with Keenan, Marlon, and Shawn spearheading the classic’s reboot, airing in theaters on June 12, 2026.
NAACP and BET are not only celebrating Black excellence and achievements in the field of entertainment at the 56th NAACP Image Awards; the organization and media company are supporting fire relief efforts for victims of the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires. In a partnership with JSSK, WME, and other organizations such as Altadena Heritage, WalkGood LA, and Community Aid Altadena, NAACP and BET will launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund. The 56th NAACP Image Awards will air Saturday, Feb. 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
