2025 BET Awards — Top Moments, Big Winners and Best Dressed Stars

The 25th BET Awards was held on June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theater. Live and brimming with energy, the event was hosted by Kevin Hart, who brought his trademark humor and warmth to the stage.

Standout Moments

Kevin kicked off the night with a flurry of jokes aimed at celebrities like Cardi B and Kendrick Lamar. Even the gospel star Kirk Franklin wasn’t spared, leaving the audience rumbling in laughter from the beginning.

In a nostalgic tribute, BET revived the energy of the original show 106 & Park. Hosts and 2000s popular artists, a la Ashanti, Amerie, Mýa, Keyshia Cole, B2K, Bow Wow, and T.I., delivered a throwback performance that sent fans down memory lane.

Teary-Eyed “Ultimate Icon” Tributes

Stevie Wonder opened a tribute to Jamie Foxx, with a lighthearted joke about his vision before a video rolled.

Foxx, visibly tearful, accepted the Ultimate Icon Award alongside Ludacris, Jennifer Hudson, and T-Pain.

Other recipients of the same award included Kirk Franklin, Mariah Carey, and Snoop Dogg—each tearful and awe-inspiring as they took the stage.

Stand‑Out Performances

Leon Thomas III, The Best New Artist winner, electrified the stage with a high energy performance of “Mutt” complete with an electric guitar.

Ravyn Lenae performed a dreamy rendition of “Love Me Not.”

Mariah Carey, upon receiving her icon award, performed “Type Dangerous”, a seductive, buzz-worthy debut.

Big Winners

Kendrick Lamar had the night of his life, taking home five awards out of ten nominations. His victories included Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, and Video of the Year for “Not Like Us.”

Rising star, Doechii won her first BET Award for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist. In accepting the award, she spoke about social issues and promoting love over hate.

Full List Of Winners – BET Awards 2025

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown

Best Group – Future & Metro Boomin

Best Collaboration – “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Best Male Hip Hop Artist – Kendrick Lamar

Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Doechii

Video of the Year – “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar

Video Director of the Year – Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar

Best New Artist – Leon Thomas

Album of the Year – GNX – Kendrick Lamar

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music

Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo

Best Actor – Denzel Washington

Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much

YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter

Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese (Basketball)

Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts (Football)

BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker

Best Dressed Stars

Doechii

Doechii stunned in a red Miu Miu ensemble, featuring an off-shoulder top, a statement belt, and eye-catching accessories that commanded attention on the carpet.

Ciara

Ciara rocked a stunning black leather look, complete with a playful feathered skirt, a dramatic train, bold chains, and sexy heels. The perfect finishing touch? A black baseball cap that added a cool, laid-back touch, making her outfit truly unforgettable!

Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg made a bold statement, rocking an all-blue ensemble from head to toe, complete with chunky chains, a sleek long coat, and fresh sneakers

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart looked dapper in a timeless double-breasted tuxedo, elegantly accessorized with a sleek brooch.

Event Highlights

The 2025 BET Awards was a memorable night that lasted nearly five hours. The live pre-show kicked off at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the prime-time show at 8 p.m. ET. The evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and breathtaking performances. The event also celebrated fan favorites and conveyed powerful cultural and communal messages, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.