Get ready for a huge night in entertainment because the Bet Awards 2025 is almost here. This annual event, known as "Culture's Biggest Night," will happen live on Monday, June 9, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET. Comedian and actor Kevin Hart is set to host. Knowing Kevin Hart, I expect a lot of laughs and maybe some unexpected moments throughout the show. It always brings together some of the biggest names in music and culture for a celebration that feels truly special. I am looking forward to seeing who takes home the awards and what performances will light up the stage this year.
This year's awards are going to be extra memorable because of some special honors. The BET Ultimate Icon Award will go to four huge names: Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg. These artists are getting this top honor for their many years of contributions to music, entertainment, and even their work in the community. It is great to see them getting such a big thank you for all they have done. These are all artists who have truly left their mark on the world of entertainment. I think this award is a fitting way to show appreciation for their long-standing careers. Some of these icons, like Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg, are also scheduled to perform during the show. That alone makes me excited to tune in.
Music's Biggest Names Will Receive Special Recognition for Their Lasting ContributionsCelebrating Decades of Influence as Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg Are Honored
Mariah Carey has a voice that has sold more than 200 million albums. She has also had nineteen number one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Kirk Franklin is a master of gospel music. He has won twenty Grammys which is more than any other gospel artist. Snoop Dogg has released twenty-one albums. These have sold over 40 million copies around the world. Jamie Foxx is also a celebrated artist. He won an Oscar in 2005 for his lead role in the movie Ray. He has also hosted the BET Awards twice before. It is clear why these four are getting such a big award. They are all giants in their fields and have inspired many artists and fans.
Previous stars who received the Ultimate Icon Award include Janet Jackson in 2015, Deborah L. Lee in 2018, and Tyler Perry in 2019. This award is not just about sales. It is about honoring the real influence and success these artists have had in music, film, and their efforts to bring about change in the world. It shows how much their work has meant to so many people over the years. I think it is important to recognize artists who have built such lasting careers and continue to be relevant.
Who Is Leading The Pack In Nominations And Which Artists Are Set To Perform Live?

A Look at Kendrick Lamar's Dominance and Chris Brown's Impressive Album of the Year Nod
Kendrick Lamar is leading the nominations for the BET Awards 2025 with a huge ten nods. This is a big deal for him. Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla are all tied with six nominations each. Metro Boomin received five nods. SZA and The Weeknd each earned four nominations. It looks like it will be a competitive night for many of these top artists. I always enjoy seeing who gets the most nominations and how that translates to wins on the big night. It adds an extra layer of excitement to the show.
Chris Brown is nominated in three categories. This includes Album of the Year for his project 11:11 Deluxe. He is also up for the fan-voted Viewer’s Choice Award for his song "Residuals." It is impressive that after almost two decades in the music world, Chris Brown is still finding new ways to make music and stay on top. His album 11:11 Deluxe is massive, with 35 tracks. It goes through many different music styles. This proves he is still making great R&B music and beyond. Many artists are making shorter albums these days to try and get more streams. Chris Brown is doing the opposite. He is giving fans a lot of music. The album touches on love, desire, regret, and strength. It is more than two hours long, and it really shows his vocal range. He sounds better than ever. I think his Album of the Year nomination is well deserved.
Besides the Ultimate Icon Award recipients, several other artists are set to perform. Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, and Leon Thomas are all on the list to take the stage. There are usually more performers announced closer to the show. So I am keeping my eyes open for any new updates. These performances are often a highlight of the night. They can bring out some truly memorable moments.
A Special Trip Down Memory Lane With A Beloved Show And Other Exciting Events

The 106 & Park 25th Anniversary Celebration and The BET Experience Leading Up To The Big Night
The BET Awards 2025 will also mark a big anniversary for a show many of us grew up watching: 106 & Park. The show is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special tribute. Former hosts will reunite on stage. This includes AJ Calloway, Free Marie Wright, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz, and Terrence J. It will be a fun walk down memory lane for sure. The tribute will also have performances from Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I., and more. I know many people will be excited to see these familiar faces and hear their favorite songs again. 106 & Park was a big part of Black youth culture for a long time. It helped launch many careers and influenced fashion and music. It is truly a classic show.
Before the main awards show, there is also the BET Experience 2025 (BETX). This includes two days of fan-focused events. These happen on Thursday, June 7, and Sunday, June 8. It is a way for fans to get even more involved in the celebration of culture. It is a good way to build up excitement for the big awards night. If you happen to be in Los Angeles during that time, it sounds like a lot of fun to check out. I always appreciate when events offer more than just the main show, letting fans get closer to the experience.
All in all, the BET Awards 2025 looks like it will be a night full of big moments. From honoring legendary artists to seeing current stars perform and celebrating a beloved TV show, there is a lot to look forward to. It shows how strong and vibrant music and culture continue to be. I am sure it will be a night to remember for everyone watching. Make sure to mark your calendars for Monday, June 9, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET. You do not want to miss it.