‘Where the Heck Is Keenen!?’: The Wayans Family Receives a Major Honor as Fans Question Why Keenen Ivory Is Missing In Action  

The Wayans family’s induction into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame at the 56th NAACP Image Awards on Feb. 22, 2025, was a celebration of their pioneering contributions to entertainment. Yet, as the family gathered at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium to receive this prestigious honor, fans quickly noticed Keenen Ivory Wayans, the visionary who launched the family’s entertainment dynasty, was missing from the ceremony.The evening began with David Alan Grier presenting the distinguished honor to family members, including Damon Sr., Marlon, Damon Jr., Kim, Chaunté, Damien Dante, Gregg, Marshay, and Craig. Noticeably, the family arrived at the event wearing matching color palettes.Fans immediately celebrated on social media, with one writing, “The Wayan& are& THE blueprint! They are the first family of Comedy! So thankful for what they have given!” Damon Wayans Sr. got emotional as he reflected on his family’s journey during his acceptance speech, taking it back to a pivotal moment on May 5, 1975. That night, he and his brother Keenen watched Richard Pryor’s television debut. While Damon saw a hilarious comedian, Keenen saw his destiny. That realization pushed him to make a life-changing decision — walking away from Tuskegee University just six months shy of earning...