Black Brilliance in Bloom: The 25th BET Awards Honors Icons, Uplifts a New Generation

Los Angeles, CA — The 25th Annual BET Awards wasn’t just a show—it was a sanctuary. A place where Black legacy met Black future, where music, faith, fashion, and purpose danced in harmony. Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, this silver-anniversary celebration was steeped in gratitude, healing, and joy. From heartfelt tributes to powerful speeches, the evening reflected everything our culture is—and everything it continues to become.

A Crown Fit for Legends: The Ultimate Icon Awards

Four cultural giants were lifted up with reverence and love. Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg were each honored with Ultimate Icon Awards—and their moments were nothing short of divine.

Jamie Foxx, making a return to the stage after a life-threatening health scare, reminded us all of the power of resilience. With Stevie Wonder by his side and his voice trembling with emotion, Foxx thanked God, family, and Black love for getting him through. His tribute brought the audience to its feet, while musical salutes from Jennifer Hudson, Babyface, and Ludacris turned the night into church.

Mariah Carey, the songbird supreme, graced the stage in full diva glory. Draped in silver, she received flowers from Snoop Dogg, who recalled how her music carried him through dark times. It was a moment of deep mutual respect—and a reminder that music heals.

Kirk Franklin, gospel’s revolutionary force, received his flowers with humility and fire. Later, he closed the show in an electrifying performance alongside GloRilla, bridging the sacred and the streets like only he can. It was a masterclass in unity, legacy, and unapologetic praise.

Snoop Dogg, hip hop’s forever uncle, was honored for three decades of game-changing cool. The room swelled with love as he shared his journey, uplifted Mariah, and reminded us all that Black longevity is a radical act.

Kendrick Stands Tall

The spirit of Compton was in the building as Kendrick Lamar walked away with five awards, including Album of the Year, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, and Video of the Year for the cultural anthem “Not Like Us.” Always purposeful, never performative, Kendrick didn’t just win—he affirmed his place as a griot of the people.

Doechii Sparks the Fire

When Doechii accepted her award for Best Female Hip Hop Artist, she didn’t hold back. In a stunning fashion moment that blended Afrofuturism with goddess energy, she delivered a speech that doubled as a call to action—demanding justice, urging civic engagement, and standing up for those without a voice. She reminded the audience that being an artist and being an advocate go hand in hand.

A Red Carpet of Royalty

Black style showed up and showed out. Keke Palmer embodied joy and youth in tulle, Jennifer Hudson dazzled in goddess-like glamour, and Yung Miami lit up the night in lavender diamonds and luxury. Meanwhile, Shaboozey brought Western pride to the forefront, and Ciara blended homegrown pride with high fashion. Every look was a love letter to identity.

The Young and the Fearless

The future arrived early. Young Star of the Year went to Blue Ivy Carter, a symbol of generational power and quiet confidence. Leon Thomas earned Best New Artist, proving that soulful, genre-blending talent still wins. On the sports side, Angel Reese and Jalen Hurts were crowned Sportswoman and Sportsman of the Year, showing the world what Black excellence looks like on and off the field.

A Revival of Culture: 106 & Park Returns

We were gifted a beautiful blast from the past as 106 & Park alumni and favorites like Ashanti, B2K, and Mýa took us back to the golden era of BET. It was more than nostalgia—it was a reminder that the culture has always been ours, and it always will be.

Kevin Hart, With Heart

Returning as host, Kevin Hart held the room with warmth and wit. Whether he was cracking jokes or honoring legends, his presence anchored the show with just the right touch of humor and humility.

A Finale That Took Us to Church

To close out the night, Kirk Franklin and his choir delivered a genre-crossing performance that set the stage ablaze. With choirs, trap drums, and unshakable faith, the moment proved that the spirit doesn’t just belong to gospel—it belongs to the people.

This Was More Than an Award Show—This Was a Gathering

The 25th BET Awards was about more than trophies. It was a family reunion. A sacred space. A celebration of the legacy-makers, the truth-tellers, and the dreamers. From Jamie to Mariah, from Kendrick to Glorilla- every soul on that stage stood as proof that Black excellence is not a trend. It’s a tradition.