The 2025 BET Awards took place on Monday night at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater, hosted for the second time by comedian Kevin Hart. The ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements in Black entertainment, honoring top actors, singers, and athletes.
Kendrick Lamar was the biggest winner, sweeping five awards including Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip-Hop Artist (his eighth), Video of the Year for “Not Like Us,” and Best Collaboration with SZA for “Luther.” He also tied for Video Director of the Year alongside collaborator Dave Free.
Other notable winners:
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SZA won Best Female R&B/Pop Artist for the third year and Best Collaboration.
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Chris Brown earned Best Male R&B/Pop Artist (eighth time) and the Viewer’s Choice Award.
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Doechii was named Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, marking her first BET win.
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Leon Thomas won Best New Artist, the first male artist to claim the title since Giveon.
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GloRilla, Kirk Franklin, and Maverick City Music took home the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award.
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Future and Metro Boomin won Best Group for the third consecutive year.
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Blue Ivy Carter received the Young Stars Award for the second year running.
In acting, Denzel Washington won Best Actor for the fifth time, while Cynthia Erivo claimed Best Actress for the first time.
The ceremony also honored music legends Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg with the 2025 Ultimate Icon Award. Notably, Mariah Carey earned her first BET Award. Jamie Foxx gave an emotional acceptance speech, reflecting on his recovery after a health scare in 2023.
In sports, Angel Reese was named Sportswoman of the Year for the third consecutive year, and Jalen Hurts won Sportsman of the Year for the second time in three years.
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