Kendrick Lamar Leads Big Wins at 25th Annual BET Awards, Hosted by Kevin Hart
The 25th BET Awards, dubbed “culture’s biggest night,” took place live at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, June 9. The milestone event marked a quarter-century of celebrating Black excellence across music, film, sports, and entertainment.
This year’s top nominee was Kendrick Lamar with an impressive 10 nods. Close behind were Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla, each securing six nominations. Metro Boomin followed with five, while SZA and The Weeknd earned four apiece. Ayra Starr, Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, Maverick City Music, Playboi Carti, Teddy Swims, and Tyler, the Creator each landed three.
Returning as host after first taking the stage in 2011, Kevin Hart brought his signature energy back to the awards show. He won Best Actor at the 2012 BET Awards for Think Like a Man. Reflecting on the significance of the 25th anniversary, Hart shared in a press release:
“I love a celebration! It’s a chance to reflect, cherish, and honor life’s unforgettable moments. I’m truly honored to host the 25th BET Awards and celebrate the culture’s biggest night.”
He promised a night filled with unforgettable performances and emotional tributes representing the richness of Black culture. The performance lineup included Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, and Leon Thomas.
🏆 Major Award Winners Include:
- Album of the Year: GNX – Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown
- Best Group: Future & Metro Boomin
- Best Collaboration: “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Video of the Year: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
- Video Director of the Year: Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
- Gospel/Inspirational Award: “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
- Viewer’s Choice Award: “Residuals” – Chris Brown
- Best International Act: Tyla (South Africa)
- Best New International Act: Shallipopi (Nigeria)
- BET Her: “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
- Best Movie: Luther: Never Too Much
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Cynthia Erivo
- YoungStars Award: Blue Ivy Carter
- Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese
- Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Hurts
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