The Latest: NAACP Image Awards kicks off 50th annual show

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (AP) — The Latest on the 50th annual NAACP Image Awards, which are being presented Saturday at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California. (all times local):

___

6 p.m.

The 50th annual NAACP Image Awards have kicked off at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California.

Anthony Anderson returned as host of the show honoring entertainers and writers of color on Saturday. He opened the awards speaking about “black excellence” in film, hoping his behavior doesn’t get him removed as host and made several jokes including one about Kanye West not being invited to cookouts.

The awards ceremony is airing live on TV One.

Donald Glover, Beyonce and “Black Panther” will be honored and vie for awards in a night where Jay-Z will receive the President’s Award for his public service achievements.

Glover is nominated for acting and directing on “Atlanta,” which is up for best comedy series. Glover’s alter-ego, Childish Gambino, is nominated for top male performer, and his song “This is America” is nominated for best video and song.

___

11:31 a.m.

The NAACP will celebrate its 50th Image Awards by paying homage to stars including Donald Glover, Beyonce and the film “Black Panther.”

Anthony Anderson returns as host of the show honoring entertainers and writers of color at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Saturday evening. It airs live on TV One.

Glover is nominated for acting and directing on “Atlanta,” which is up for best comedy series. Glover’s alter-ego Childish Gambino is nominated for top male performer and his song “This is America” is nominated for best video and song.

“Black Panther” is nominated for 14 awards, with star Chadwick Boseman and director Ryan Coogler contending for entertainer of the year along with Beyonce, LeBron James and Regina King.

One nominee who’s not planning to attend is embattled “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett.