2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Times Queen Latifah Delivered an Award-Worthy Performance
Queen Latifah has dominated screens for decades, and her latest win at the 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards just reaffirms her reign.
Taking home the award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her role in “The Equalizer,” the actress edged out an impressive list of nominees, including Angela Bassett (9-1-1), Emayatzy Corinealdi (Reasonable Doubt), Shanola Hampton (Found), and Zoe Saldaña (Lioness).
However, for longtime fans, this victory comes as no surprise—Latifah has been delivering powerhouse performances across film and television for years.
From action-packed dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, she’s proven time and time again that she’s a force to be reckoned with. In honor of her big win this year, take a look at five of her most unforgettable on-screen performances.
Khadijah James / Living Single
Before “Sex and the City,” and “Friends,” there was Living Single—and at the heart of it was Khadijah James, the sharp, ambitious magazine editor played by Queen Latifah. Her portrayal of an independent, successful Black woman was groundbreaking and remains one of her most beloved roles. Plus, her chemistry with the cast made the show an instant classic.
Bessie Smith / Bessie
Bringing the legendary blues singer Bessie Smith to life, the actress delivered a tour-de-force performance in this HBO biopic. The role showcased her incredible range, allowing her to flex her dramatic acting chops while also reminding everyone of her vocal prowess. It’s no surprise this role earned her an Emmy nomination and a Screen Actors Guild Award win.
Matron “Mama” Morton / Chicago
n “Chicago,” Latifah played Mama Morton, the rugged and charismatic warden who runs the prison like a well-oiled machine. With her powerful rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama,” she left audiences wanting more. Her performance earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
- advertisement
Cleo Sims / Set It Off
Arguably one of her most defining roles, Latifah’s performance as Cleo in “Set It Off” was raw, emotional, and unforgettable. As the rigid, ride-or-die member of a group of women who turn to bank robbing, she gave us a character full of depth and heart.
Robyn McCall / The Equalizer
The industry veteran stepped into the legendary role of Robyn McCall, a former CIA operative turned vigilante, with the kind of authority only she could bring. As a fearless protector of the vulnerable, she blends action, heart, and sheer charisma, making “The Equalizer” one of TV’s must-watch dramas.
