The 2025 BET Awards held on June 9 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles was an unforgettable night, packed with breathtaking performances, fashion statements, and poignant moments honoring the best in entertainment. Kendrick Lamar, the evening’s top nominee, emerged as the biggest winner, taking home five prestigious awards, including Album of the Year for his project GNX.
The Night’s Main Event: Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s dominance at the 2025 BET Awards was solidified when he walked away with five out of his ten nominations. The night celebrated his contributions to music with accolades including Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration for “Luther” featuring SZA, and Video of the Year for “Not Like Us.” His director, Dave Free, also received recognition as Video Director of the Year. Lamar’s heartfelt acceptance speeches not only championed his peers but emphasized the importance of authenticity and artistic integrity within the industry.
A Full List of Winners
The ceremony included various categories celebrating both established artists and emerging talent. Below is a complete list of key winners:
- Album of the Year: GNX by Kendrick Lamar
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Chris Brown
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Group: Future & Metro Boomin
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas
- Viewer’s Choice Award: “Residuals” by Chris Brown
- Best Movie: Luther: Never Too Much
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Cynthia Erivo
- Ultimate Icon Award: Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, Kirk Franklin
As seen in previous years, the BET Awards not only highlighted the best music of the year but also embraced diversity in the arts, showcasing talent across different genres and backgrounds.
Fashion Statements on the Red Carpet
The BET Awards are as much about the performances as they are about the fashion. This year, celebrities turned heads with their stunning and often daring outfits. Keke Palmer, who wore a vintage Chanel minidress, was one of the best-dressed stars, dazzling attendees with her glamorous look. On the other hand, Machine Gun Kelly’s casual yellow ensemble fell flat in comparison to the flashier styles of the night.
Best Looks of the Evening
Highlights from the red carpet included:
- Keke Palmer: Her vintage Chanel minidress captivated everyone.
- Doechii: She showcased a stylish red set that caught the eyes of fashion critics.
- Ryan Destiny: Her ethereal silver gown was praised for its elegance.
- Snoop Dogg: His monochromatic blue outfit aligned perfectly with his laid-back style.
Fashion Misses
Conversely, some outfits were critiqued for their lack of cohesion:
- Ciara: While her individual pieces were stylish, they overwhelmed each other.
- T.I.: His powder blue suit was on display but marred by mismatched accessories.
- Cam Newton: His floral ensemble clashed due to excessive accessorizing.
Kevin Hart’s Hilarious Opening Monologue
Hosting this year’s ceremony was comic giant Kevin Hart, known for his sharp wit and humor. During his opening monologue, Hart roasted some of the industry’s biggest names, including Sean “Diddy” Combs and Kanye West.
“That’s where s–t gets slippery, at them goddamn after-parties,” he joked, referring to Combs’ controversial reputation.
Hart also made fun of West’s antics, saying, “Oh s–t, it’s Kanye. He says he’s out front, waiting for somebody to invite him in.” This joke drew laughter from the audience, establishing Hart’s talent for blending humor with timely commentary.
Tributes and Acknowledgments
While the comedy was a highlight, Hart didn’t shy away from paying homage to the powerful female artists in attendance. He emphasized the critical role women play in advancing the hip-hop genre:
“Shouts out to Cardi B, shouts out to Meg[an] Thee Stallion… It’s dope to see how you guys are pushing the business in music forward. Keep going, ladies, keep going.”
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Night
The 2025 BET Awards celebrated not just the nominees and winners but also the spirit of creativity and resilience within the entertainment industry. Kendrick Lamar’s historic wins showcased the ongoing evolution of hip-hop, while the fashion moments and comedic highlights ensured the night was one to remember. As artists continue to break barriers and redefine genres, the BET Awards remains a cornerstone celebration of Black culture and artistry.
For future updates on the BET Awards and related events, stay tuned and celebrate the extraordinary talent that graces the entertainment industry.
