BET and the NAACP today announced that the “57th NAACP Image Awards” delivered strong ratings growth, reaching 2.2 million P2+ viewers across 13 Paramount networks, including CBS, and posting +22% growth among Adults 18–49 impressions for the simulcast year-over-year.

Key Performance Highlights:
Metrics across BET, CBS, BET Her, VH1, CMT, Comedy Central, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Paramount, POP, Smithsonian and TV Land.

• 2.2M total viewers (P2+) across 13 networks, ranking as the #1 entertainment program in its timeslot (excluding sports and news)
• +22% growth among Adults 18–49 impressions for the simulcast year-over-year
• 400K Adults 18–49 impressions, up from 328K last year
• CBS delivered 1.287M total viewers, up +17% vs. last year (1.099M)
• Adults 18–34 impressions doubled year-over-year (+100%), delivering 134K impressions across the simulcast
• CBS telecast ranked #1 entertainment program among Adults 18–49, Adults 18–34, and Adults 25–54
• #1 most social program of the night across all TV, generating 2M+ social interactions (excluding sports and late night)

“The NAACP Image Awards continue to be one of the most important celebrations of Black excellence and cultural impact,” said Louis Carr, President of BET. “Through our longstanding partnership with the NAACP and the power of our Paramount network family, we are able to bring this extraordinary night to audiences at scale, honoring the storytellers, leaders, and creators whose voices move culture forward and reminding the world that our stories matter.”

“We remain proud to offer the most powerful celebrations of Black excellence, and we’re thrilled to see audiences show up and engage with this moment in such a strong way,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “For nearly six decades, the Image Awards have provided a safe and affirming space where our community is celebrated, recognized, and appreciated for the excellence that shapes culture around the world. As we look ahead, the NAACP is committed to expanding the reach and platform of the Image Awards to ensure every corner of Black culture is seen, honored, and uplifted.”

The evening served as a powerful tribute to the extraordinary leaders, storytellers, artists, and advocates shaping culture and driving meaningful impact across industries.

The “57th NAACP Image Awards” continue to stand as one of the most influential and culturally significant celebrations of Black achievement, bringing audiences together for a night that honors legacy, celebrates excellence, and uplifts the voices shaping the future. The broadcast was executive produced by Leon W. Russell, Derrick Johnson, Eris Sims, Robin Harrison, Connie Orlando, Reginald Hudlin, Phil Gurin and Byron Phillips.

Linear Source: Nielsen ’26 Big Data vs ’25 Panel Data | Live + Same Day Viewing

Digital Source: Trends24, 2.28.26. U.S. only. Talkwalker, SCR, 2.28.26, excludes Sports and Late-Night. Talkwalker, 2.28.26-3.1.26, #NAACPIMAGEAWARDS.

 

About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race–based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP–LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.