LOS ANGELES (AP) — The upcoming BET Awards is gearing up to make a splash as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Scheduled for June 9, 2024, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, this year's ceremony promises to be a star-studded event featuring major names in the music and entertainment industry, including Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey, and Jamie Foxx.
Kendrick Lamar leads the nominations with an impressive tally of 10, competing for the coveted album of the year with his critically acclaimed project “GNX.” His hit single “Not Like Us,” known for its sharp commentary stemming from his feud with Drake, has garnered nominations for both video of the year and the viewer’s choice award.
The BET Awards will air live at 8 p.m. Eastern Time, providing fans with an opportunity to witness the celebration of talent and creativity. Lamar's recent accomplishments have been noteworthy; he won both song and record of the year at the Grammys for “Not Like Us” and delivered a groundbreaking halftime show at the Super Bowl, becoming the first solo hip-hop performer to do so. Currently, he is on the Grand National Tour with SZA.
In addition to the nominations, this year’s ceremony will honor several influential figures in the industry. Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin will receive the Ultimate Icon Award, recognizing their impact on entertainment and the community at large.
The second-highest nominations are shared by Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla, each securing six nominations. Metro Boomin follows closely with five nods, while both SZA and The Weeknd have garnered four nominations each.
The show promises an exciting lineup of performers, featuring rap legend Lil Wayne, the dynamic GloRilla, and singer Teyana Taylor. Other confirmed performers include rapper Playboi Carti and singer Leon Thomas, ensuring a vibrant celebration filled with entertainment.
Hosting the event will be Kevin Hart, who is expected to bring his comedic flair to the ceremony. Having hosted the BET Awards in 2011, Hart described this year’s event as a “black-tie affair,” emphasizing it as a moment to reminisce and honor unforgettable milestones in life. He boasts a rich history with BET, having hosted “Comic View: One Night Stand” and being involved with various projects, including “Real Husbands of Hollywood” and the animated comedy “Lil Kev” on BET+.
Viewers can look forward to heartfelt tributes during the ceremony, including homage paid to former hosts and standout performances from the network's flagship program “106 & Park.” BET’s president and CEO, Scott Mills, noted the show’s significance, stating, “‘106 & Park’ was more than just a music countdown show; it was the heartbeat of Black youth culture and one of the highest-rated BET programs for over a decade.” The tribute will welcome back past hosts A.J. Calloway, Free, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz, and Terrence J, as well as performances by notable artists such as Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I., and Mr. 106 & Park.
In the acting categories, viewers can expect a highly competitive race for best actor, featuring nominees such as Aaron Pierre, Aldis Hodge, Anthony Mackie, Colman Domingo, Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Joey Bada$$, Kevin Hart, Sterling K. Brown, and Will Smith. The best actress category is equally impressive, with nominees including Andra Day, Angela Bassett, Coco Jones, Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kerry Washington, Quinta Brunson, Viola Davis, and Zendaya.
Prominent sports stars such as Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Simone Biles, Angel Reese, and Jalen Hurts are also poised to compete for awards, showcasing the diverse array of talent recognized at this year’s BET Awards.
