Deon Cole Roasts Nicki Minaj During NAACP Image Awards Opening

Deon Cole had the crowd laughing during his opening monologue at the NAACP Image Awards, but one joke quickly got people talking online.

The comedian delivered a mock prayer for Nicki Minaj, saying she had been going through a lot lately and joking that she had not been herself.

He pushed the bit further with a bold punchline that drew loud laughs from parts of the audience as cameras showed guests smiling.

Many viewers believe the joke was a nod to the backlash Nicki has faced over her public support for Donald Trump, which has divided fans and sparked debate on social media.

Nicki was not the only star mentioned during the monologue.

Cole also aimed playful jabs at Teyana Taylor and 50 Cent.

There has been no public response from Nicki so far.

Still, the moment has already become one of the most discussed highlights of the night.