Druski Hosts Star-Studded Ceremony
The 2026 BET Awards took place on June 28, celebrating music and culture with a night of performances, tributes, and surprises. Comedian Druski served as host, guiding the audience through an evening that honored both emerging and legendary artists.
Emotional Tributes to D'Angelo and Lauryn Hill
One of the most emotional moments came during a tribute to the late D'Angelo. His children—Michael, Imani, and Morocco Archer—introduced his band, The Vanguard, before a performance. Family also took center stage when Lauryn Hill's children Selah, Zion, and YG Marley participated in a tribute celebrating their mother. Hill later accepted the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award, marking a historic moment for the ceremony.
RAYE’s Debut and Standing Ovation
RAYE made her BET Awards debut with a powerful performance of "Nightingale Lane." Her extended vocal finale earned a standing ovation from the audience, solidifying her presence on the global stage.
Janet Jackson Surprises Teyana Taylor
Janet Jackson made a surprise appearance to present Teyana Taylor with the Icon of the Year award. Before beginning her speech, Jackson politely asked audience members to sit down, saying, "I'm so sorry, but all of you in the back, you're going to have to sit down because I can't see the font." Taylor became emotional upon seeing Jackson and told the audience: "Oh my God, bitch, I'm gagging. They did not tell me Janet was coming!"
Cardi B’s Medley and Trophy Drama
Cardi B performed a medley from her latest album, Am I the Drama?, including the television debut of her diss track "Pretty & Petty." Later in the evening, she briefly left the stage without taking her Best Female Hip Hop Artist trophy after accepting the award, creating a buzz among attendees.
SZA and Doechii Win BET Her Award
SZA and Doechii accepted the BET Her Award for their collaboration "Girl, Get Up." As music began signaling that their acceptance speech was running over time, Doechii responded, "I'm gonna keep my time!" She then teased upcoming music, telling the audience: "I just wanna say, new music is coming soon, and to all the haters that have something to say about me, you better be ready for me to pop back out because I'm coming with a new single and it's finna kill everybody. Don't ever play with me!"
Jamie Foxx and Daughter on Stage
Family also took centre stage when Jamie Foxx appeared alongside his daughter Anelise, who joined him on guitar during his introduction to Kehlani's performance. The moment highlighted the personal connections woven throughout the evening.
