DUBAI: Part-Middle Eastern star Yara Shahidi made an appearance at the 55th annual NAACP Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday night as a handful of stars showed off ensembles by Arab designers.
The ceremony honored the achievements of people of color in film, television, music, and literature and saw R&B icon Usher named entertainer of the year.
“Grown-ish” star Shahidi, whose father is Iranian, attended the ceremony in a look from Italian label Ferragamo’s Spring/Summer 2024 ready-to-wear collection. Meanwhile, Usher’s wife Jennifer Goicoechea walked the red carpet by the award winner’s side in a tailored, blazer-like gown from Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad’s Resort 2024 line.
Jennifer Goicoechea walked the gold carpet in a tailored, blazer-like gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad. (Getty Images)
Actress Queen Latifah stunned in a lilac look by Lebanon’s Georges Hobeika, from his Fall/Winter 2023 Couture collection, and model Madisin Rian showed off a dramatic burgundy jumpsuit by Lebanese designer Saiid Kobeisy, complete with an oversized cape and beaded detailing on the bodice.
For his part, Usher hit the stage and reeled off several of his recent big moments including his sold-out residency in Las Vegas, getting married, releasing his ninth studio album “Coming Home” and his Super Bowl halftime performance, which became the most-watched in the game's history.
Madisin Rian showed off a dramatic burgundy jumpsuit by Lebanese designer Saiid Kobeisy. (Getty Images)
Usher beat out Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer.
“I don't know how many people do that much stuff in one setting,” said the multi-Grammy winner, who was presented the award by Oprah Winfrey. After being surprised by Winfrey's presence, he thanked those who have supported him throughout the years.
“This is for you, you, my number ones,” the singer said as the audience repeated his words back to him. The final words of his speech were recited lyrics from his popular song “Superstar” from his 2024 album “Confessions,” which has sold more than 10 million units in the US.
Earlier in the ceremony, Usher was honored with the President's Award for the singer's public service achievements through his New Look Foundation. He thanked the women in his life, including his mother and wife Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married after his Super Bowl halftime performance last month.
“The say behind or beside or with every strong man is a stronger woman,” he said.
Queen Latifah hosted the awards ceremony aired live on BET.
“The Color Purple” was awarded best motion picture. The musical film featured star-studded cast including Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, H.E.R., Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins and Bailey.
New Edition was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. The induction is bestowed on individuals who are viewed as pioneers in their respective fields and whose influence shaped their profession.
