Samuel L. Jackson Honors Rev. Jesse Jackson at NAACP Image Awards

At the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, actor Samuel L. Jackson delivered a moving tribute to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, recognizing his decades of civil rights advocacy and impact on the entertainment industry. The tribute came after Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away earlier this month after battling a rare neurological disorder .

A Legacy of Activism

Dressed in traditional African attire, Jackson spoke of Rev. Jackson’s journey from humble beginnings in the Jim Crow South to becoming a national leader. He highlighted Rev. Jackson’s role in continuing the fight for civil rights after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. .

“For over half a century — which is a long damn time to be on the front lines — he advocated for the poor, the disenfranchised, for those who needed work,” Jackson said, as reported by BET.com .

Personal Connection

Jackson also shared a personal connection to the civil rights leader, noting that Rev. Jackson inspired him as a young man. “He inspired a young man who has the same last name as his — one Samuel L. Jackson” .

He acknowledged the impact Rev. Jackson had on opening doors for people of color in entertainment, a sentiment that resonated with the audience of actors, directors, and producers .

Call to Action and Remembrance

Jackson concluded his tribute with a call to action, urging attendees to continue Rev. Jackson’s work and fight for justice. He proposed the question, “W.J.D. — what would Jesse do?” as a guide for action .

“We will carry the torch he lit and retain hope alive,” Jackson declared . He affirmed a commitment to ensuring Rev. Jackson’s legacy would not be erased from American history .

The NAACP Image Awards tribute followed the announcement of Rev. Jackson’s passing, with his family describing him as a “servant leader” who dedicated his life to the oppressed and voiceless .