The BET Awards commemorated their 25th anniversary in Los Angeles with a star-studded event filled with emotion, laughter, and poignant moments. The ceremony drew attention not only to the achievements in the entertainment industry but also to pressing social issues.
Doechii took to the stage early on, capturing attention with her gripping speech upon receiving the award for best female hip-hop artist. She utilized her platform to shine a light on the harsh immigration raids and protest crackdowns occurring just miles from the venue. “There are ruthless attacks creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order,” Doechii declared, urging the audience to contemplate the implications of using military forces against peaceful protests.
Her words left a lasting impact, sparking applause and affirming the ceremony’s commitment to addressing issues beyond the glamour of the awards. In expressing her gratitude, she emphasized her responsibility to speak for the oppressed, advocating for hope over fear.
The evening also recognized the remarkable contributions of Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin, who were honored with the Ultimate Icon Award. Each honoree was celebrated not only for their professional achievements but also for their influence within the community.
Foxx, in particular, provided an emotionally charged moment, reflecting on his health scare from earlier years. “When I saw the memoriam, I was like, ‘Man, that could’ve been me,’” he admitted, recalling the severity of his condition in 2023. Supported by his family and presented with the award by Stevie Wonder, Foxx shared his renewed outlook on life and his commitment to giving back.
Meanwhile, Mariah Carey expressed newfound confidence, emphasizing the importance of living for oneself rather than seeking external approval. Snoop Dogg shared his journey through hip-hop, celebrating the genre’s power to give him a voice and impact lives across the globe.
Kirk Franklin, known for his humor and humility, exclaimed his surprise at receiving the award, attributing his success to a higher power. “If you’re listening to this, that’s when you know it’s God,” he said.
Kevin Hart infused the night with humor, targeting everything from celebrity antics to afterparty adventures. His jokes struck a chord with the audience, mixing hilarity with sincerity as he acknowledged the achievements of the honorees.
The night was rounded out with Kendrick Lamar’s win for Album of the Year for his outstanding project “GNX.” Lamar’s success followed his Grammy triumphs, further solidifying his influence in the music industry.
The BET Awards also featured a host of performers, including Lil Wayne, GloRilla, and others, while paying tribute to the legacy of “106 & Park,” bringing together a lineup of past hosts and performers to honor the program’s impact.
Overall, the 25th anniversary of the BET Awards united powerhouse performances, heartfelt speeches, and calls for social justice, ensuring the ceremony resonated far beyond the confines of the event venue.