The 2026 BET Awards lit up the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with comedian Druski hosting a night of music, film, television, and culture.
Cardi B entered the ceremony as the most nominated artist with six nods, followed by Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist with five each.
Teyana Taylor received the Icon of the Year award, while Lauryn Hill was honoured with the Living Legend Icon Award.
The ceremony featured performances from Cardi B, Doechii, Queen Latifah, Common, Don Toliver, Jill Scott, Kehlani, Rick Ross, Tems, T.I., French Montana, Max B, The War and Treaty, and kwn.
Veteran rapper MC Lyte returned as the show's announcer.
Below is the full list of winners;
Music
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Cardi B
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: Kehlani
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Leon Thomas
- Best Group: Clipse
- Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
- Album of the Year: Let God Sort Em Out by Clipse
- Best Collaboration: Chains & Whips, Clipse featuring Kendrick Lamar
- Video of the Year: Folded, Kehlani
- Video Director of the Year: Teyana "Spike-Tey" Taylor
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: Headphones, Lecrae, Killer Mike and T.I.
- BET Her Award: girl, get up., Doechii featuring SZA
Film and television
- Best Actress: Teyana Taylor
- Best Actor: Michael B. Jordan
- Best Movie: Sinners
Sports and culture
- Sportswoman of the Year: A'ja Wilson (basketball)
- Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Brunson (basketball)
- The Pulse Award (Podcast/Media): Druski
- The Fashion Vanguard Award: Teyana Taylor
- YoungStars Award: Jazzy's World TV