Deon Cole Set to Host '56th NAACP Image Awards' | News | BET
Today, and announced that beloved comedian, actor, and writer Deon Cole will host the “56th NAACP Image Awards” airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on on and This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to .
"BET is excited to partner once again with the incomparable Deon Cole, whose effortless charm and humor resonate deeply with our audiences," said "Whether through his standout performances in Average Joe, his films, or his acclaimed stand-up specials, Deon consistently delivers authentic and impactful entertainment. We can’t wait to see him bring his unique perspective and comedic brilliance to the 56th NAACP Image Awards, capturing this powerful cultural moment as only he can."
“As a comedian, actor, and cultural icon, Deon Cole has consistently used his talent to entertain, uplift, and inspire. His humor, deep appreciation for the culture, and commitment to our community has cemented him as an entertainment legend,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “It is truly an honor to have him as the host of this year’s 56th NAACP Image Awards. His presence will guide us through an evening of unforgettable moments as we celebrate the visionaries and trailblazers who continue to define and revolutionize culture.”
Deon Cole is a comedian, writer, and actor, who can be seen in the title role of the dark comedy AVERAGE JOE, from McG. The BET+ original series has garnered incredible reviews fromHollywood Reporter andEntertainment Weekly. Most recently, Deon appeared in THE MADNESS (Netflix), a political drama thriller by Clement Virgo and VJ Boyd, produced by Chernin. Additionally, Cole can be seen in Blitz Bazawule's critically acclaimed remake of THE COLOR PURPLE; the film scored 16 nominations at the 55th NAACP Image Awards, winning 11, including Outstanding Motion Picture.
Deon was previously seen as Charlie on ABC’s BLACK-ISH and Freeform’s GROWNISH. For his work on BLACK-ISH, Deon won three consecutive Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series awards at the 2020, 2021, and 2022 NAACP Image Awards. In standup, Deon recently released his third one-hour special for Netflix, OK, MISTER, which earned an NAACP Image nomination for Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special). His previous special, CHARLEEN'S BOY (Netflix), was released by Netflix in 2022. On March 6, Deon can be heard as a voice in the BET+ animated series, LIL KEV, opposite Kevin Hart and Wanda Sykes.
BET and the NAACP remain committed to celebrating Black excellence and resilience through the “56th NAACP Image Awards.” Their support extends to the Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Pasadena communities affected by the recent wildfires. As part of these efforts, BET Media Group, NAACP, JSSK, and WME have partnered with LA County and in collaboration with local community organizations such as Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA, to launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aimed at protecting homeowners from displacement and preserving the community’s cultural heritage.
