Viola Davis to Receive NAACP Chairman's Award

The acclaimed actress will be honored at the 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The NAACP announced that acclaimed actress Viola Davis will receive the prestigious Chairman's Award at the upcoming 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony. The award honors individuals who excel in public service and use their platforms to drive meaningful change.

Why it matters

Viola Davis is a highly respected and influential figure in the entertainment industry, known for her powerful and transformative performances. The Chairman's Award recognizes her contributions not only as an actress, but as a trailblazer who has used her platform to advocate for opportunity and equity.

The details

The 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony will take place on February 28th at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. In addition to receiving the Chairman's Award, Davis is also nominated for an NAACP Image Award for her role in the action-thriller film G20.

  • The 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony will take place on February 28, 2026.
  • Viola Davis attended the Academy Museum 5th annual gala in Los Angeles on October 18, 2025.

The players

Viola Davis

An acclaimed actress who holds EGOT status, recognized for her powerful and transformative performances.

Leon W. Russell

The chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors, who praised Davis' career and legacy.

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What they’re saying

“Viola Davis is a generational talent who has commanded audiences with her powerful and transcending performances. Through a career defined by excellence and courage, she has used her platform to work towards opportunity and equity, crafting an undeniable legacy for generations to come. We look forward to celebrating her and the trailblazing path she has created for herself, and others to follow.”

— Leon W. Russell, Chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors (kornradio.com)

What’s next

The public can vote to determine winners in select categories at the 57th NAACP Image Awards. Voting ends on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Viola Davis' recognition with the prestigious NAACP Chairman's Award underscores her status as a trailblazing and influential figure in the entertainment industry, who has used her platform to advocate for opportunity, equity, and meaningful change.