Los Angeles Hosts 25th Annual BET Awards
The BET Awards marked a landmark moment on June 9, 2025, as the 25th annual ceremony lit up the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles. With comedian Kevin Hart serving as the evening’s charismatic host, the show brought together a glittering array of artists, actors, and athletes to honor Black excellence across entertainment and culture.
The milestone event celebrated achievements in music, film, sports, and philanthropy, reaffirming the BET Awards’ reputation as one of the most influential nights in American entertainment.
Kendrick Lamar Leads with Ten Nominations
Rapper Kendrick Lamar dominated this year’s nominations with ten nods, including Album of the Year for GNX and Video of the Year for “Not Like Us.” His recent Super Bowl halftime performance and co-headlining tour with SZA have solidified his place as a creative powerhouse.
Fans and critics alike have praised Lamar for his sharp lyrics and innovative sound, while his latest work continues to spark cultural conversations nationwide. His presence at the awards reinforced his role as a driving force in modern music.
Ultimate Icon Award Celebrates Industry Legends
In a moment of heartfelt tribute, the BET Awards honored four entertainment titans—Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin—with the prestigious Ultimate Icon Award. Each of these trailblazers has shaped the cultural landscape over decades through groundbreaking music, acting, and community work.
Mariah Carey took to the stage in an emotional performance medley that spanned her illustrious career. Jamie Foxx offered a powerful acceptance speech reflecting on his artistic journey and personal trials. Meanwhile, Snoop Dogg energized the crowd with a nostalgic set that paid homage to his West Coast roots, and gospel artist Kirk Franklin delivered a soul-stirring message of faith and resilience.
Performances Reflect Musical Diversity
The stage came alive with a series of standout musical performances from an eclectic lineup, including Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, Playboi Carti, GloRilla, and Leon Thomas. From trap and R&B to gospel and alternative hip-hop, the show reflected the vibrancy and diversity of the current Black music scene.
Teyana Taylor’s dance-heavy performance was widely applauded for its theatrical flair and emotional depth, while Playboi Carti’s high-energy set brought a punk-inspired edge to the night. Emerging artist GloRilla wowed the crowd with her bold delivery and confident stage presence.
‘106 & Park’ Reunion Thrills Longtime Fans
A surprise reunion of the beloved BET music video countdown show 106 & Park thrilled fans with appearances by former hosts and nostalgic performances. Bow Wow joined R&B stars Amerie and Mya in a special tribute segment that revisited the show’s golden era in the early 2000s.
The segment celebrated 106 & Park’s influence in spotlighting up-and-coming artists and shaping hip-hop and R&B culture. With throwback visuals and crowd-favorite hits, the tribute captured the essence of a generation raised on after-school music television.
Stars Across All Fields Recognized
Beyond music, the BET Awards recognized achievements across sports and cinema. Appearances from Denzel Washington, Zendaya, LeBron James, Viola Davis, and Simone Biles added star power and underscored the event’s broader mission.
Zendaya won Best Actress for her acclaimed role in Euphoria: Genesis, while Simone Biles accepted the Sportswoman of the Year award. Both women used their platform to advocate for mental health, equity, and excellence across their respective disciplines.
Fashion Steals the Spotlight
The red carpet was a showcase of daring elegance. Zendaya turned heads in a shimmering custom Versace gown, while Kendrick Lamar kept it sleek with a modern black suit. Celebrities embraced bold prints, Afrocentric designs, and futuristic silhouettes that reflected pride and creativity.
Looking Ahead
Closing the ceremony, BET’s leadership reaffirmed a vision of growth and inclusion for the next quarter-century. A stirring ensemble performance of “Glory” closed out the night, symbolizing unity, legacy, and the power of Black voices.