Deon Cole opened the NAACP Image Awards with a monologue that mixed politics, pop culture, and a sharp nod to a recent BAFTA controversy. On Saturday night, he spoke at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and joked about keeping anything linked to “ICE” off the guest list. He also referenced the BAFTAs moment when a racial slur interrupts presenters Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Deon Cole joked about audience outbursts and told people to read the room. Regina Hall praised Jordan and Lindo for their composure. The show also spotlighted tributes for Viola Davis and Colman Domingo.
