Michael B. Jordan Honors Chadwick Boseman with Touching Tribute at 2026 NAACP Image Awards
Michael B. Jordan had an emotional night at the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, taking home the title of Entertainer of the Year and dedicating the honor to his late Black Panther co-star, Chadwick Boseman.
The ceremony took place at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, and was hosted by Deon Cole. The event followed four nights of virtual presentations celebrating achievements in film, television, and music.
On stage, Jordan spoke from the heart about the meaning of the award. “I was thinking about lead actor, and I was thinking about what lead actor meant to me. And honestly, I gotta dedicate this award to Chadwick Boseman,” he said.
“As my brother, our time on this planet is short. I was watching the ‘In Memoriam’ and seeing how fast these careers go by and people’s lives go by, and what we do while we’re here on Earth. And I just want to be here and be present with you guys as much as possible.”
From sneaking into award shows to now being awarded by that same show multiple times. The man. The legend. Michael B Jordan. #NAACPImageAwards pic.twitter.com/0KGHRNqmLK
— BET (@BET) March 1, 2026
Jordan also won Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for his role in Sinners, which was one of 12 awards the film took home during the ceremony. Sinners also earned Outstanding Motion Picture, with Delroy Lindo and Wunmi Mosaku receiving the supporting actor and actress awards, respectively.
In the acting categories, Cynthia Erivo was recognized as Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for Wicked: For Good. On the television side, Abbott Elementary dominated with three wins, including Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for creator and star Quinta Brunson.
Cedric the Entertainer won Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for The Neighbourhood, while Sterling K. Brown and Angela Bassett took home awards for Outstanding Actor and Actress in a Drama Series for Paradise and 9-1-1.
The music categories were highlighted by Cardi B and Kendrick Lamar. Cardi B won Outstanding Female Artist for Am I the Drama? and Kendrick Lamar earned Outstanding Male Artist for Luther.
The NAACP Image Awards continue to honor the achievements of people of color across more than 80 competitive categories. Jordan’s dedication to Boseman and his own double win made for one of the most memorable moments of the evening.
Seeing Michael B. Jordan pay tribute to Chadwick Boseman reminded fans of the deep bonds forged on-screen and off. What did you think of Jordan’s heartfelt dedication and the night’s big winners? Share your thoughts in the comments.