2026 NAACP Image Awards Nominees Brunch Recap!

 

By Evan L. Jackson

The celebration of Black excellence toasted every year is commenced by the NAACP Image Awards Nominees Luncheon! It is the starting point to a month filled with festivities that highlights nominees in the fields of Film, Television, literary work and now new categories through digital and social media. I had so much fun speaking with Co-host of the evening, actress Ambyr Michelle of CBS smash hit soap opera “Beyond The Gates”.

The 2026 NAACP Image Awards Luncheon was hosted by Actor Melvin Gregg of Peacock's "The Paper" and Ambyr Michelle of CBS "Beyond The Gates". The evening was kicked off by a rousing speech made by NAACP CEO and President Derrick Johnson. He emphasized unity, reiterating that in these times having hope is vital and encouraged everyone in the room to take action. Action in the form of service to one another and appreciation for fellow nominees. While on the carpet I had the opportunity to speak to him and he echoed the same sentiments. 

What stood out to me the most is when he said "Do the work" when I framed the question in the form of how do we balance out the hate in this world and add love. Such a great answer! As myself, a new member of the NAACP Pasadena branch it was great to hear from him what's expected of new members and honestly what the average citizen can do to make this world better.

Throughout the ceremony winners were announced and my Young Bold And Regal team and I were happy to see that actress and "Squeezed" podcast host Yvette Nicole Brown had won! We have been a supporter of her work for years and we also interviewed her on the carpet. Our Young Bold And Regal Correspondent Maxine Cesar went in depth asking Yvette what inspired her to create her podcast. Her "Squeezed" podcast is about her being a caretaker. The difficulties, joys and tribulations that go along with that as well. 

One of the more exciting conversations on carpet was when we spoke to NAAP Image Awards winning actress Kyla Pratt! Such an icon! Our Young Bold And Regal Correspondent Lauryn McCollum talked to her about legacy and wisdom she imparts on her children. What's so cool to me is the cameo her daughter made within the interview, a nod to the future. All generations can feel the impact of the NAACP Image Awards and all can enjoy! 

  

First time nominee Tryiq Withers expressed his love for the NAACP Image Awards and being humbled to be a two time nominee. For Best Lead Male Actor In A Film and Best Breakthrough Performance. He mentioned feeling grateful to be nominated and also gave advice to those coming up in the industry. He was one of the standout actors of 2025 for his film "HIM" which he co-starred with Marlon Wayans. Another great moment on the carpet with the new germination of talent enjoying award season.

One of my favorite conversations on the carpet conducted by us was with Apple TV's "The Morning Show" & Netflix "Forever" star Karen Pittman. So graceful! She spoke to our Young Bold And Regal correspondent Lauryn McCollum about her roles one each of those shows and it has impacted the culture. Through her role on "The Morning Show" her character exhibits strength during a turbulent time in her career. Galvanizing her self and ultimately standing tall in her Black womanhood. Through her character in "Forever" she navigates playing the mother who's son whirlwind romance takes over his life but she serves as a beacon of truth for him. This is why Karen Pittman is a multi nominee at the 2026 NAACP Image Awards. Very well deserved! 

Overall the evening was filled with love, laughter, and winners announced. And overall a room filled with gratitude and appreciation. Join Young Bold And Regal for the NAACP Image Awards February 28th on CBS 5pm PST/8pm PST.