Los Angeles, 9 June 2025 – A night of celebration and purpose unfolded at the 25th annual BET Awards. Kendrick Lamar dominated, while Doechii used her spotlight to speak for change.
A Night of Music, Milestones and Messages
Comedian Kevin Hart returned to host for the first time since 2011, opening with wit and warmth. “I love a celebration! It’s a chance to reflect, cherish, and honor life’s unforgettable moments,” Hart said during his opening lines. The evening also honored legends Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg and Kirk Franklin with the coveted Ultimate Icon award.
The ceremony, held at the Peacock Theatre, marked a quarter-century milestone for the show. Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor and Playboi Carti added musical spice to a night heavy with meaning.
Kendrick Takes Centre Stage
Kendrick Lamar led with ten nominations and walked away a four-time winner. He claimed:
- Album of the Year for GNX
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist
- Video of the Year for Not Like Us
- Best Collaboration, alongside SZA, for Luther
He also shared Video Director of the Year with Dave Free, combining artistry and leadership in one sweep.
Doechii’s Bold Stand
Doechii was crowned Best Female Hip Hop Artist, marking her first BET victory. In her acceptance speech, she shifted focus to urgent national concerns.
“There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order… I want you all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when every time we exercise our democratic right to protest, the military is deployed against us,” she said, drawing applause from the audience.
SZA and More: Stars in the Spotlight
Highly acclaimed singer‑songwriter SZA earned Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, while Chris Brown secured Best Male R&B/Pop Artist. Future and Metro Boomin were awarded Best Group, further highlighting a rich and diverse field of talent.
New Faces and Inspiration
Leon Thomas was recognised as Best New Artist, signaling the arrival of fresh talent. In the gospel and inspiration category, GloRilla, Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music won the Dr. Bobby Jones Award for their powerful anthem Rain Down on Me.
Summer Walker received the BET Her Award for Heart of a Woman, while Chris Brown’s Residuals took home the Viewer’s Choice Award.
Film and Screen Honours
In cinematic and dramatic categories, Luther: Never Too Much was named Best Movie. Denzel Washington was awarded Best Actor, continuing a legacy of on‑screen excellence. Cynthia Erivo, honoured with Best Actress, added further depth to the show’s celebration of creative achievement.
Ultimate Icons Reflect and Inspire
Jamie Foxx, who overcame a stroke in 2023, was visibly moved during his award acceptance.
“The thing was almost a wrap. Every prayer counted… I promise I’ll do right,” Foxx told the crowd, his voice cracking with emotion.
Mariah Carey, receiving her first BET Award, reflected sincerely on her journey:
“Life is far too short to live for anyone else’s approval… I decided to own who I am.”
Snoop Dogg called the night “about legacy… about what you build, what you leave behind and who you lift up along the way.”
Balanced Spotlight
What began as a star-studded spectacle became a stage for messages that matter. The BET Awards honoured music legends and new artists alike, while also recognising the cultural role of music in times of social and political challenge.
Full List of Winners:
(Select categories below)
- Album of the Year: GNX – Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best Collaboration: Luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
- Video of the Year: Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational: Rain Down on Me – GloRilla, Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music
- BET Her Award: Heart of a Woman – Summer Walker
- Viewer’s Choice Award: Residuals – Chris Brown
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Cynthia Erivo
- Best Movie: Luther: Never Too Much
Looking Ahead
This 25th anniversary ceremony was more than an evening of musical awards. It felt like a conversation about who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we might go next. It was a night when a comedian made us laugh, award winners made us think, and icons reminded us what staying power means.
