- Wednesday, June 11, 2025
The 2025 BET Awards celebrated 25 years of Black excellence with show-stopping performances and major wins for Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and Chris Brown. Explore the full list of winners, standout moments, and trending highlights from Culture’s Biggest Night.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
The 2025 BET Awards, marking a quarter-century of honoring Black achievement in music, film, TV, and sports, delivered a night packed with electrifying performances, emotional tributes, and headline-making victories. Hosted by comedian Kevin Hart for the second time, the event lived up to its reputation as “Culture’s Biggest Night,” bringing together the industry’s brightest stars at a star-studded ceremony.
Kendrick Lamar Leads with Five Wins
Kendrick Lamar, who entered the night with a leading 10 nominations, emerged as the biggest winner, taking home five trophies. His critically acclaimed album “GNX” won Album of the Year, while his viral hit “Not Like Us” secured Video of the Year and Viewer’s Choice Award. Lamar’s collaboration with SZA on “Luther” also earned Best Collaboration, cementing his status as a dominant force in hip-hop and R&B.
SZA and Chris Brown Shine Bright
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SZA, Lamar’s Grand National tour mate, also enjoyed a victorious night, winning Best Female R&B/Pop Artist and sharing Best Collaboration with Kendrick for “Luther.” Chris Brown, another top nominee, took home Best Male Pop/R&B Artist and the Viewer’s Choice Award for “Residuals,” reaffirming his enduring popularity in the industry.
Doechii, Future, and GloRilla Among Top Contenders
Doechii, reigning Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and known for her hit “Denial is a River,” was among the night’s most-nominated artists alongside Drake, Future, and GloRilla, each with six nods. Future and Metro Boomin won Best Group, while Doechii’s “Bloom” was recognized in the BET Her Award category.
Star-Studded Performances and Emotional Moments
The ceremony featured unforgettable performances from Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, Playboi Carti, Mariah Carey, Andra Day, Snoop Dogg, Babyface, and Jennifer Hudson. The night also included moving tributes as Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin were honored as Ultimate Icons, each delivering heartfelt acceptance speeches and show-stopping musical numbers.
Complete List of BET Awards 2025 Winners
Major Music Categories
Special and International Awards
Film and Sports Categories
Ultimate Icon Awards
Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin were celebrated as Ultimate Icons, each receiving tributes and delivering memorable speeches that highlighted their impact on music and culture.
The 2025 BET Awards was a testament to the power, diversity, and influence of Black artists and creators. With Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and Chris Brown leading the charge, and unforgettable performances lighting up the stage, this year’s ceremony will be remembered as one of the most dynamic and inspiring in the show’s 25-year history.
