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
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Kendrick Lamar accepts the Album of the Year award for "GNX" onstage during the 2025 BET Awards at Peacock Theater on June 09, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
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
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.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Lil Wayne performs onstage during the 2025 BET Awards at Peacock Theater on June 09, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Complete List of BET Awards 2025 Winners
Major Music Categories
- Album of the Year: “GNX” – Kendrick Lamar
- Video of the Year: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
- Viewer’s Choice Award: “Residuals” – Chris Brown
- Best Collaboration: “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar featuring SZA
- Best Male Pop/R&B Artist: Chris Brown
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Female Hip-Hop Artist: Doechii
- Best Male Hip-Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
- Best Group: Future and Metro Boomin
Special and International Awards
- BET Her Award: “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla featuring Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music
- Best New International Act: Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
- Best International Act: Tyla (South Africa)
- Video Director of the Year: Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar
Film and Sports Categories
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Zendaya
- Best Movie: “Luther: Never Too Much”
- Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese
- Sportsman of the Year: LeBron James
- YoungStars Award: Blue Ivy Carter
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.
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