The 2026 BET Awards concluded live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, broadcast simultaneously on BET and a selection of partner networks. Comedian and host Druski guided audiences through an evening that celebrated the most influential voices in music, film, and sports. This year’s ceremony highlighted a diverse group of artists, with several newcomers earning major accolades alongside established icons.
Event Overview
The ceremony marked the second consecutive year the awards were held at the Peacock Theater, a venue that has become synonymous with high‑energy performances and star‑studded presentations. The 2026 edition featured a streamlined format that allowed more time for live sets and acceptance speeches, giving viewers an intimate look at the artists’ journeys.
Nominee Landscape
Nominations were unveiled in May, and the competition was fierce. Cardi B led the pack with six mentions, while Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist each earned five. Doechii, Doja Cat, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, Olivia Dean, and Latto each secured four nominations. A trio of three‑nominee artists included Jill Scott, Kehlani, T.I., A$AP Rocky, Bruno Mars, Bryson Tiller, Chris Brown, Metro Boomin, SZA, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and YK Niece.
Performances and Special Appearances
The live show welcomed a roster of talent: Cardi B, Doechii, Queen Latifah, Common, Don Toliver, French Montana, Max B, Jill Scott, Kehlani, Rick Ross, Tems, T.I., the War and Treaty, and kwn. Veteran MC Lyte returned as the event announcer, adding a nostalgic touch to the celebration.
Major Award Highlights
- Fashion Vanguard Award – Teyana Taylor
- Pulse Award – Druski
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – Kehlani
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Leon Thomas
- Best Group – Clipse
- Best Collaboration – “Chains & Whips” (Clipse & Kendrick Lamar)
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist – Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Cardi B
- Video of the Year – “Folded” (Kehlani)
- Video Director of the Year – Teyana “Spike‑Tey” Taylor
- Best New Artist – Olivia Dean
- Album of the Year – “Let God Sort Em Out” (Clipse)
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “Headphones” (Lecrae, Killer Mike & T.I.)
- Best Actress – Teyana Taylor
- Best Actor – Michael B. Jordan
- YoungStars Award – Jazzy’s World TV
- Best Movie – Sinners
- Sportswoman of the Year Award – A’ja Wilson (Basketball)
- Sportsman of the Year Award – Jalen Brunson (Basketball)
- BET Her – “girl, get up.” (Doechii feat. SZA)
Additional Honors
- Icon of the Year (sponsored by Hyundai) – Teyana Taylor
- Living Legend Icon Award (sponsored by Sprite) – Lauryn Hill
These recognitions underscore the ongoing influence of artists who have shaped the cultural landscape over decades.
Full Winners List (Categorized)
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Fashion Vanguard Award | Teyana Taylor |
| Pulse Award | Druski |
| Best Female R&B/Pop Artist | Kehlani |
| Best Male R&B/Pop Artist | Leon Thomas |
| Best Group | Clipse |
| Best Collaboration | “Chains & Whips” – Clipse & Kendrick Lamar |
| Best Male Hip Hop Artist | Kendrick Lamar |
| Best Female Hip Hop Artist | Cardi B |
| Video of the Year | “Folded” – Kehlani |
| Video Director of the Year | Teyana “Spike‑Tey” Taylor |
| Best New Artist | Olivia Dean |
| Album of the Year | “Let God Sort Em Out” – Clipse |
| Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award | “Headphones” – Lecrae, Killer Mike & T.I. |
| Best Actress | Teyana Taylor |
| Best Actor | Michael B. Jordan |
| YoungStars Award | Jazzy’s World TV |
| Best Movie | “Sinners” |
| Sportswoman of the Year Award | A’ja Wilson (Basketball) |
| Sportsman of the Year Award | Jalen Brunson (Basketball) |
| BET Her | “girl, get up.” – Doechii feat. SZA |
