Hosted by Billboard cover star Druski and anchored by star-studded tributes to Ms. Lauryn Hill and the late D’Angelo, the 2026 BET Awards absolutely rocked Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre on Sunday night (June 28).
A wide range of performers lit up the night, including R&B sensations (Kehlani, Tems, kwn), hip-hop superstars (Cardi B, Don Toliver, Baby Keem, T.I.), and British powerhouse RAYE.
Lauryn Hill, who was honored with the Living Legend Icon Award, received a sprawling tribute comprised of some of contemporary music’s biggest stars and her own musician children, including Selah, YG and Zion Marley, who provided a strong reggae backbone for the whole affair. The War and Treaty, which includes Sister Act 2 actress Tanya Trotter, kicked off the tribute with a rousing performance of “Joyful, Joyful,” threading together the gospel and thespian throughlines that ground much of Ms. Hill’s oeuvre. Doja Cat and Nas delivered a cross-generational rendition of “If I Ruled the World,” Lizzo and Rapsody joined forces for the classic “Doo Wop (That Thing)” and Common and Queen Latifah rocked the theater with “Lost Ones.”
D’Angelo also received a terrific tribute. The Vanguard, his illustrious backing band, reunited to support a lineup of stellar vocalists, including RAYE, George Clinton, Ari Lennox, Isaiah Sharley, BJ the Chicago Kid and Durnad Bernarr, who stole the show with a killer rendition of “S—t, Damn, Motherf—er.”
The night’s most-nominated artist, Cardi B (six), took home a new best female hip-hop artist trophy, marking her third win in the category. Teyana Taylor and Clipse swept the ceremony with three wins each. The One Battle After Another star won best actress, video director of the year, and the newly-established fashion vanguard award, in addition to her honorary Icon of the Year Award, while the Virginia-hailing brother duo took home best group, best collaboration (for their Kendrick Lamar-assisted “Chains & Whips”) and album of the year (Let God Sort Em Out). Pusha T and Malice might not have been in attendance, but Taylor picked up her trophies from none other than Janet Jackson.
Another music industry titan was honored with a special award: culture-shaping record executive Sylvia Rhone, who received the Ultimate Icon Award, presented by Kelly Rowland, for her indelible impact on contemporary Black music and the music industry at large.
Outside of music, Sinners won best movie, Michael B. Jackson picked up best actor and New York Knicks 2026 NBA Finals MVP Jalen Brunson was named sportsman of the year.
Viewers at home were treated to a (surprisingly and relatively) succinct show, but those cameras didn’t tell the full story. Here are the seven best 2026 BET Awards Moments you may not have seen on television.
