Yara Shahidi Shines in Arab-inspired Gowns at NAACP Awards in Los Angeles
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Raven Ruma
- . March 18, 2024
- . Update: March 19, 2024 12:36 am
Yara Shahidi, a rising Middle Eastern star, graced the 55th annual NAACP Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday night, joining a select group of celebrities who showcased outfits by Arab designers.
The event celebrated the accomplishments of people of color in film, television, music, and literature, with R&B icon Usher named the entertainer of the year.
Yara Shahidi, known for her role in “Grown-ish,” arrived at the ceremony dressed in an ensemble from the Spring/Summer 2024 ready-to-wear collection by Italian label Ferragamo. Usher’s wife, Jennifer Goicoechea, accompanied him and walked the red carpet wearing a tailored gown reminiscent of a blazer from Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad’s Resort 2024 line.
Actress Queen Latifah captivated onlookers in a lilac ensemble by Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika, sourced from his Fall/Winter 2023 Couture collection. Model Madisin Rian showcased a striking burgundy jumpsuit by Lebanese designer Saiid Kobeisy, featuring an oversized cape and intricate beaded detailing on the bodice.
During his time on stage, Usher recounted several recent milestones, including his sold-out residency in Las Vegas, his marriage, the release of his ninth studio album “Coming Home,” and his highly-watched Super Bowl halftime performance, which became the most-viewed in the history of the game.
Usher triumphed over nominees Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer for the entertainer of the year award. The multi-Grammy winner was presented the accolade by Oprah Winfrey, who surprised him with her presence. Usher expressed gratitude to his loyal supporters and recited lyrics from his popular song “Superstar,” featured on his 2024 album “Confessions,” which has sold over 10 million units in the US.
Earlier in the ceremony, Usher received the President’s Award for his public service achievements through his New Look Foundation. He expressed appreciation for the influential women in his life, including his mother and wife Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married after his Super Bowl halftime performance the previous month.
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Hosted by Queen Latifah, the awards ceremony was broadcast live on BET.
“The Color Purple” received the award for best motion picture. The musical film boasted a 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, recognizing their pioneering contributions to the music industry and their lasting impact on the profession.
