Published by: Sourav Kumar
Updated on: Tuesday, 10 June 2025

The 2025 BET Awards celebrate 25 years of Black excellence in music, sports, and entertainment with a star-studded lineup hosted by Kevin Hart—despite protests in downtown L.A.

BET Awards 2025 Celebrate 25 Years of Black Excellence Amid Unrest in Downtown L.A.

Despite ongoing protests and heightened security concerns in downtown Los Angeles, the 2025 BET Awards are moving forward as planned on Monday night. The Peacock Theater at L.A. Live is once again the epicenter for a night that honors the contributions of Black artists, entertainers, and athletes across music, film, sports, and culture.

A Historic Milestone: 25 Years of BET Awards

Marking a full quarter-century since the inaugural BET Awards in 2001, this year’s event promises to be one of the most dynamic yet. Hosted by Kevin Hart, a long-time BET favorite, the 2025 awards will include tributes, high-energy performances, and honors for multi-generational icons.

BET President Scott Mills said:

“Kevin Hart’s unparalleled talent and connection to our audience make him the perfect host for this historic celebration.”

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Star-Studded Performances and Presentations

Some of the biggest names in the music industry are set to light up the stage, including

• Lil Wayne

• Teyana Taylor

• GloRilla

• Playboi Carti

• Leon Thomas

Special attention will be given to a tribute performance for “106 & Park”, celebrating the iconic music video show’s influence on pop culture. Returning to the stage will be past hosts like

• Julissa Bermudez

• Terrence J

• Rocsi Diaz

• Free (Marie Wright)

• A.J. Calloway

• Keshia Chanté

Performers for this tribute include Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Mya, T.I., Jim Jones, and more.

Major Nominations & Special Awards

Kendrick Lamar leads the pack with 10 nominations, including Best Male Hip-Hop Artist and Album of the Year. Following him are:

• Doechii, Drake, Future, GloRilla—6 nominations each

• Metro Boomin—5 nominations

• SZA & The Weeknd—4 nominations each

Others with notable mentions include Lil Wayne, Tyler, the Creator, Chris Brown, and Ayra Starr.

The BET Ultimate Icon Award will honor four influential figures:

• Jamie Foxx

• Mariah Carey

• Kirk Franklin

• Snoop Dogg

These honorees are recognized for their decades of cultural impact, musical innovation, and community leadership.

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FAQs About BET Awards 2025

When and where are the BET Awards 2025 happening?
The awards are live on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theater at L.A. Live, downtown Los Angeles.

Who is hosting the BET Awards 2025?
Kevin Hart returns as the host, bringing his comedic energy to the 25th anniversary show.

Is the event still happening despite protests?
Yes, the show is proceeding as scheduled with increased security measures due to recent protests in the area.

Where can I watch the BET Awards 2025?
The show airs live on the East Coast and tape-delayed on the West Coast, exclusively on BET and BET+.

Who is leading the nominations this year?
Kendrick Lamar tops the list with 10 nominations.

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Final Thoughts

As the BET Awards reach a major milestone, 2025 is more than just another ceremony—it’s a celebration of legacy, resilience, and Black brilliance. Despite the backdrop of unrest in downtown L.A., the night stands as a powerful reminder of how culture can unify and uplift.

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