BET Awards 2025 Recap

The 2025 BET Awards brought the energy, emotion, and elevation we’ve come to expect — and then some. Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, this year marked the 25th anniversary of the show, blending celebration with meaningful reflection. From legendary tributes to show-stopping performances and culturally vital messages, the night was unforgettable.

Kendrick Lamar Dominates the Night

Kendrick Lamar was undeniably the king of the 2025 BET Awards. The Compton native took home five major awards, including:

Album of the Year for GNX

Best Male Hip-Hop Artist

Video of the Year

Best Collaboration with SZA for “Luther”

Lamar used his platform to reflect on creative growth and community responsibility, solidifying his reign not only as an artist but a cultural voice.

Doechii Uses Her Voice to Speak Out

Doechii claimed the title of Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, and her acceptance speech immediately resonated beyond music. She took the moment to call out immigration raids and violations of civil liberties, drawing attention to issues that impact many of her fans directly.

A Night of Legends: Ultimate Icon Awards

The most emotional moments came during the presentation of the Ultimate Icon Awards, which honored four giants of Black entertainment:

Mariah Carey: Honored for her legendary vocals and diva legacy. She told fans: “Be a diva. Be a boss.”

Jamie Foxx: Marking his first major public appearance since his 2023 stroke, Foxx delivered a powerful speech after being introduced by Stevie Wonder.

Snoop Dogg: Honored for his decades of influence in hip-hop and the West Coast legacy.

Kirk Franklin: Celebrated not only for his music, but his continued role as a spiritual voice in entertainment.

Surprise Comebacks & Generational Moments

The night felt like a reunion of eras as the 106 & Park 25th Anniversary Segment brought out Ashanti, Mýa, B2K, and Bow Wow, reminding fans of the golden age of BET music shows.

Meanwhile, the next generation showed up strong:

Blue Ivy Carter won the YoungStars Award

Leon Thomas was named Best New Artist

SZA and Chris Brown won Best R&B/Pop Artists

Athletes, Activists, and Awareness

Winners in sports included:

Angel Reese – Sportswoman of the Year

Jalen Hurts – Sportsman of the Year

The show made room for moments of advocacy, reminding viewers of the importance of visibility and speaking out. Whether through Doechii’s message or Jamie Foxx’s emotional return, the event emphasized healing, truth, and community strength.

Performances That Set the Stage on Fire

From GloRilla’s gospel-infused set with Kirk Franklin, to Lil Wayne and Playboi Carti delivering raw energy, the performances were diverse and dynamic.

Kirk Franklin closed the night with an inspirational finale, reminding us all of the soul music that anchors the Black experience.

Complete Winner Highlights

Album of the Year: GNX – Kendrick Lamar

Best Female Hip-Hop Artist: Doechii

Best Male Hip-Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown

Best New Artist: Leon Thomas

Best Collaboration: Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “Luther”

YoungStars Award: Blue Ivy Carter

Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese

Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Hurts

Final Takeaway: A Crown Jewel of Culture

The 2025 BET Awards delivered on its promise: to celebrate Black creativity, acknowledge pain, and spotlight progress. Between powerful performances and meaningful moments, it proved again why this platform remains a crown jewel of cultural recognition.

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