In Los Angeles, Kendrick Lamar, the acclaimed rapper, is positioned to dominate the upcoming BET Awards with 10 nominations, showcasing his powerful influence in the music industry. His celebrated album “GNX” has been nominated for Album of the Year, and his viral diss track “Not Like Us,” which emerged from his rivalry with Drake, has earned nominations for Video of the Year and Viewer’s Choice Award. Lamar’s recent victories include winning Song and Record of the Year at the Grammys for “Not Like Us.” The prominent artist also made history by starring as the first solo hip-hop act to headline a Super Bowl Halftime Show. Currently, Lamar is touring on the Grand National Tour alongside SZA.
Other artists shining with nominations include Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla, each with six nods. Renowned producer Metro Boomin received five nominations, while SZA and The Weeknd have each garnered four.
As for performances, the BET Awards will feature some notable names. Hip-hop legend Lil Wayne, rapper GloRilla, and the multi-talented singer Teyana Taylor are set to take the stage. Additional performers announced include rapper Playboi Carti and singer Leon Thomas, promising an evening filled with exciting acts.
Comedian Kevin Hart is slated to bring laughs as the host for this year’s 25th Anniversary BET Awards ceremony. Having previously hosted in 2011, Hart parties this event as a “black-tie affair,” designed to cherish and honor unforgettable moments. With a history at BET, from hosting “Comic View: One Night Stand” to executive producing “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Hart is sure to add his signature humor to the proceedings.
The show will also pay tribute to BET’s storied past with nods to their flagship program “106 & Park.” Scott Mills, BET’s president and CEO, emphasizes that “106 & Park” was integral to Black youth culture. Launched in 2000, it not only thrived on countdown videos, interviews, and performances but also played a significant role in fostering careers and influencing style. The special tribute segment will feature former hosts such as A.J. Calloway, Free, Julissa Bermudez, and more, with performances by artists like Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, and others.
Scheduled for June 9, the awards show will broadcast live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. EDT. The event boasts a lineup of distinguished nominees, with celebrities vying for best actor and actress awards, including Aaron Pierre, Aldis Hodge, Anthony Mackie, and more in the actor category. The actresses competing include talents such as Andra Day, Angela Bassett, and Zendaya. Meanwhile, sports icons like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Simone Biles are among the nominees for sports accolades.