Salt-N-Pepa and DJ Spinderella to Be Inducted Into NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame

The pioneering hip-hop trio Salt-N-Pepa will be enshrined in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame at the 57th annual ceremony on Saturday, February 28. This accolade honors the lasting legacy of Cheryl "Salt" James, Sandra "Pepa" Denton, and DJ Deidra "Spinderella" Roper, arriving shortly after their groundbreaking entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last November. NAACP President Derrick Johnson emphasized their seminal influence, noting, "They forged a template of confidence and authenticity that continues to guide artists, fundamentally transforming hip-hop in the process." This back-to-back recognition from major institutions solidifies their status as pivotal figures who crafted an empowering new voice for women in music.

Established in 1967, the NAACP Image Awards honor outstanding achievements by people of color in film, television, music, and literature. The Hall of Fame award specifically celebrates individuals whose contributions have defined their fields for decades. The honor places Salt-N-Pepa among an elite roster of past recipients like Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder, and last year's inductees, the Wayans family. Connie Orlando, a BET executive, highlighted the group's cultural impact: "They redefined the possibilities for women in hip-hop, promoting a message of self-assurance that resonated far beyond the music." Their iconic hits, including "Push It" and "Shoop," not only topped charts but also challenged the genre's male-dominated norms, directly influencing later generations from Lil' Kim to Cardi B. As music historian Dr. Evelyn Carter observes, "Their fusion of danceable beats with assertive, often playful, lyricism created a commercial and cultural lane that simply did not exist for female MCs before them."

A wide range of presenters will take the stage, blending industry veterans with rising talent. The list features director Ryan Coogler, actors Delroy Lindo and Regé-Jean Page, comedians Janelle James and Regina Hall, and cast members from Tyler Perry’s "Sistas." NAACP leaders, including Chairman Leon W. Russell, will also present, ensuring the ceremony connects decades of artistic and social advocacy.

The evening will recognize several other impactful leaders beyond the Hall of Fame induction. Actor Colman Domingo is slated to receive the President’s Award, while acclaimed performer Viola Davis will be presented with the Chairman’s Award. Additional honors include rapper A$AP Rocky receiving the Vanguard Award for his influence on fashion and Rev. Dr. Jamal-Harrison Bryant accepting the Mildred Bond Roxborough Social Justice Impact Award for his activism. These distinctions underscore the NAACP Image Awards' commitment to celebrating excellence across entertainment, style, and societal change.

Comedian Deon Cole will host the main ceremony, broadcasting live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET, CBS, and Paramount networks. For a comprehensive preview, a live red carpet pre-show hosted by Kyla Pratt and Terrence J. begins at 3 p.m. PT on BET.com, featuring exclusive interviews and a showcase of the evening's fashion arrivals. This expanded coverage reflects the event's growing prominence as a key televised moment celebrating Black cultural achievement.