2025 NAACP Image Awards: Meet the Stars of 'The Six Triple Eight'
Tyler Perry’s “The Six Triple Eight” is more than just a movie—it’s a long-overdue tribute to the unshakable strength of Black women who defied expectations and made history.
The film centers on the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the first and only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II. It highlights their resilience, sacrifice, and undeniable power.
These women didn’t just serve—they shattered barriers, proving that perseverance and sisterhood can move mountains.
And with a stacked cast, it’s no surprise “The Six Triple Eight” has earned a nomination for Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture at the NAACP Image Awards 2025, airing live on February 22 at 8 PM ET.
In honor of the recognition, we’re breaking down five powerhouse performers leading the charge.
Kerry Washington
From handling scandals as Olivia Pope to playing a trailblazer in “The Six Triple Eight,” Kerry Washington gets what it means to embody power.
In the film, Washington takes on the role of Major Charity Adams, the first Black woman to command a battalion in the U.S. Army. Adams wasn’t just a leader—she was a force, refusing to let racism and sexism derail her mission.
Ebony Obsidian
Best known for her breakout role in “If Beale Street Could Talk,” Ebony Obsidian steps into the role of Lena Derriecott King.
King also served under Major Adams in the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Before enlisting in the “Six Triple Eight,” she volunteered as a nurse in the Army.
Pepi Sonuga
Nigeria-born actress Pepi Sonuga made her breakthrough in 2013 with her role as Michelle in “Life of a King.” Since then, she has built an impressive resume, appearing in popular TV series such as “The Fosters” and “Ash vs Evil Dead.”
In the film, Sonuga plays Elaine White, a character not based on a specific historical figure but representing the real women who served in the 6888th Battalion. Elaine is portrayed as a compassionate and thoughtful individual, though she is also a touch pretentious.
- advertisement
Sarah Jeffery
Sarah Jeffery may have made a name for herself in Charmed and Descendants, but in the film, she’s showing a whole new side of her talent.
She plays Private First Class Anna Mae Robertson, a young soldier eager to prove herself. Robertson represents the fresh recruits—women who left everything behind to serve but quickly learned that life in the military wasn’t just about patriotism; it was about survival.
Shanice Shantay
Shanice Shantay's acting career took off with her role as Dorothy Gale in “The Wiz Live!”
In the film, she steps into the role of Johnnie Mae Burton. While Johnnie Mae isn’t based on a real member of the 6888th battalion, she embodies the spirit of the 855 women who served.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
