Viola Davis to Receive Prestigious NAACP Chairman's Award

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

Published on Feb. 13, 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 have used their platform to drive meaningful change, and Davis is being recognized for her powerful performances and advocacy work.

Why it matters

Viola Davis is one of the most respected and celebrated actresses of her generation, having won an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony Award. The Chairman's Award is one of the NAACP's highest honors, highlighting Davis' contributions to both her craft and social justice causes.

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.
  • Voting for select NAACP Image Award categories ends on February 13, 2026.

The players

Viola Davis

An acclaimed actress who has won an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony Award for her powerful performances. She is being honored with the prestigious NAACP Chairman's Award.

Leon W. Russell

The chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors, who praised Davis' excellence, courage, and trailblazing path.

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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 (mycentraloregon.com)

The takeaway

Viola Davis' recognition with the NAACP Chairman's Award underscores her immense talent, her commitment to using her platform for social good, and her lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.