The 2025 BET Awards lit up Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater on Sunday with a dazzling celebration marking 25 years of Black culture and creativity. Hosted by Kevin Hart, the milestone broadcast honored trailblazers in music, film, television, and sports while blending nostalgia with electrifying new moments. The night’s icon award recipients were Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg and Kirk Franklin.
One of the evening’s biggest highlights was a 106 & Park reunion featuring Free Marie Wright, Terrence J, Big Tigger, Keshia Chanté, and Julissa Bermudez. They welcomed back fan favorites including Bow Wow, Ashanti, T.I., Keyshia Cole, Mya, B2K, and Jermaine Dupri. During the celebration, BET announced a new show, 106 & Sports, hosted by Cam Newton and Ashley Nicole Moss.
Leon Thomas stunned with a high-energy rock-infused performance of “Mutt” and took home Best New Artist. Big Tigger’s rap cypher brought out Kid Capri, Ludacris, and Kevin Hart’s alter ego Chocolate Droppa. Lil Wayne energized the crowd with a fiery rendition of “A Milli,” while Keyshia Cole teamed up with GloRilla for a powerful “Typa” and “Love” medley.
Emotional tributes carried the in memoriam segment, with Lucky Daye, Luke James, and Michael Canton honoring legends like Quincy Jones and Cissy Houston. Andra Day’s rendition of “Killing Me Softly” brought the house to silence.
Teyana Taylor made her return to music, performing new singles “Fire Girl” and “Long Time” with an appearance from Taraji P. Henson. Tyler Perry introduced Ledisi, who delivered a stirring performance of “BLKWMN.” On the BET Amplified stage, Ravyn Lenae and Elmiene showcased their rising artistry.
The night culminated with four Ultimate Icon Awards. Mariah Carey was honored by Busta Rhymes and performed with DJ D-Nice, Anderson .Paak, and Rakim. Snoop Dogg’s tribute featured West Coast legends and a medley of his biggest hits. Jamie Foxx, introduced by Stevie Wonder, gave a moving speech after performances by Jennifer Hudson, T-Pain, and others. Kirk Franklin closed the show with gospel anthems and a powerful finale joined by Tamar Braxton and Muni Long.
The complete list of winners for the “BET AWARDS” 2025 are:
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
“GNX” – Kendrick Lamar
BEST COLLABORATION
“LUTHER” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST
SZA
BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST
Chris Brown
BEST NEW ARTIST
Leon Thomas
BEST GROUP
Future & Metro Boomin
BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Doechii
BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Kendrick Lamar
DR. BOBBY JONES BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
“Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music
BET HER AWARD
“Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
BEST MOVIE
“Luther: Never Too Much”
BEST ACTRESS
Cynthia Erivo
BEST ACTOR
Denzel Washington
YOUNGSTARS AWARD
Blue Ivy Carter
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Angel Reese – Basketball
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Jalen Hurts – Football
VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD
“Residuals” – Chris Brown