When and Where to Watch
Mark your calendar for Sunday, June 28, 2026. The show airs live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET. [15, 21] If you don't have cable, the ceremony will be simulcast across a wide range of channels, including MTV, VH1, and
Comedy Central. [15] Live TV streaming services like Philo, which offers a free trial, are also an option for catching the show. [10]
Meet Your Host: Druski
Comedian and internet personality Druski will be hosting the ceremony, making him the youngest host in the show's history. [6] Known for his viral skits and chaotic comedic energy, Druski's hiring signals a fresh, internet-savvy approach for the awards. [16] He's promised to do things his way, so expect plenty of unscripted moments and a very online sense of humor to drive the night. [16]
The Nominees to Know
This year, Cardi B leads the pack with six nominations, including for Album of the Year ("Am I the Drama?") and Best Female Hip-Hop Artist. [9] Close behind are Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist, who each nabbed five nominations. [1] Lamar is up for major awards like Video of the Year for "luther," while Mariah the Scientist also competes in that category with "Burning Blue." [9] Other heavily nominated artists include Doechii, Doja Cat, Teyana Taylor, and Latto, each with four nods. [20]
The Must-See Performance Lineup
The BET Awards stage is known for its legendary performances, and this year's lineup is stacked with a mix of icons and current superstars. Top nominee Cardi B is slated to perform. [4] She'll be joined by a massive list of talent that includes legends like Nas, Queen Latifah, Jill Scott, T.I., and George Clinton. [4, 8] Other major names taking the stage include Common, Kehlani, Ari Lennox, Baby Keem, Tems, and Doechii, promising a night filled with diverse musical moments. [2, 7, 8]
Honoring the Icons
Beyond the competitive categories, the BET Awards will present several special honors to celebrate living legends. [24] The iconic Ms. Lauryn Hill will receive the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award. [1] Singer, director, and all-around creative force Teyana Taylor is set to be honored as the Icon of the Year. [1] Additionally, veteran music executive Sylvia Rhone will be recognized with the Ultimate Icon Award for her decades of leadership and impact on the industry. [1] These tributes are often among the most powerful and memorable segments of the entire show. [23]
Potential Water Cooler Moments
With so much talent in one room, the potential for viral moments is high. Watch for the tribute performances for Ms. Lauryn Hill and Teyana Taylor, which are likely to feature surprise guests and emotional renditions of their classic songs. [1, 12] Cardi B's performance is also one to watch, as the night's top nominee will likely aim to deliver a show-stopping production. [7] Finally, keep an eye on the new "Pulse Award," which honors the creators and content that most powerfully moved Black culture online—a category where host Druski is also a nominee. [19, 20]
