BET Awards weekend feels like a family reunion for the culture, earning the ceremony its title as Culture’s Biggest Night. After days of performances, a celebrity basketball game, and fan experiences, the 2026 BET Awards will kick off at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT, hosted for the first time by comedian Druski.
It’s been a long time since I genuinely looked forward to tuning in to the award show I grew up watching with my family. The past few years were decent, but didn’t capture the magic BET was known for. This year, when I saw the star-studded lineup, it reminded me of that Sunday in June every year when we’d all crowd into the living room, laughing, critiquing performances, and posting tweets to see if anyone else had seen what we just saw (of course, they did).
With Cardi B, Queen Latifah, Nas, Rick Ross, Doechii, RAYE, Common, TEMS, Kehlani, and many more set to perform, it seems like we’re in for the best BET Awards show in years.
BET’s D’Angelo Tribute performers
D’Angelo’s signature sound is unmatched, but there are acts that can do justice to the “How Does It Feel?” legend’s tribute. BET has tapped RAYE, Ari Lennox, BJ the Chicago Kid, Durand Bernarr, and George Clinton for this special performance.
Ms. Lauryn Hill to receive the Living Legend Icon Award
No rapper’s debut album has matched the cultural impact of Ms. Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. In recognition, BET is awarding her the Living Legend Icon Award, with a powerhouse tribute featuring Lizzo, Queen Latifah, Common, Nas, Alexia Jayy, Doechii, Rapsody, Doja Cat, Selah, Tierra Whack, The War and Treaty, Zion Marley, YG Marley, and more.
Other announced performers include T.I., Don Toliver, French Montana, Erica Campbell, and more.
Teyana Taylor will receive the Icon of the Year award
Regardless of any debate, Teyana Taylor is receiving this honor tonight, and she absolutely deserves it. I can’t wait to see what she wears, as her award show looks never disappoint. She’s sure to be among the best-dressed.
Header photo credit: Paramount Press Express
