The 2026 BET Awards is here, bringing together the biggest names in music, television, film, and sports for a night of celebration. This year’s ceremony features a star-studded lineup of performers, a historic hosting debut, and special honors for legendary artists.
The 26th annual BET Awards takes place Sunday, June 28, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. The show airs live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and will also simulcast across multiple Paramount-owned networks including BET Her, CMT, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Nickelodeon (NAN), Paramount, POP, VH1, Comedy Central, and TV Land.
Druski Becomes Youngest BET Awards Host in History
Comedian and digital creator Druski is hosting the 2026 BET Awards for the first time. At 31 years old, he makes history as the youngest host ever for the ceremony, surpassing Kevin Hart, who previously held the record when he hosted at age 32 in 2011.
Druski built his career through viral comedy sketches on social media before expanding into sold-out tours and collaborations with major artists including Drake and Snoop Dogg. He has also appeared alongside celebrities like Tom Brady and Timothée Chalamet.
Speaking about the opportunity, Druski said:
“I grew up watching the BET Awards. To know the comedic legends that hosted before me set the bar so high, I’m just grateful to be a part of the history. But I’m still bringing my brand of comedy to the stage.”
BET executive vice president Connie Orlando praised Druski’s selection, calling him “one of the most exciting and influential comedic voices of his generation” who brings “a unique ability to connect with audiences through humor that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in culture.”
MC Lyte returns as the show’s announcer, bringing her hip-hop pioneer energy to the ceremony.
Full List of 2026 BET Awards Performers
The 2026 BET Awards features an impressive lineup of performers spanning multiple generations and genres of music. Leading nominee Cardi B, who has six nominations this year, is set to perform along with other top nominees.
Here is the complete list of performers for the 2026 BET Awards:
- Alexia Jayy
- Ari Lennox
- Baby Keem
- BJ the Chicago Kid
- Cardi B
- Common
- Doechii
- Doja Cat
- Don Toliver
- Durand Bernarr
- Erica Campbell
- French Montana
- George Clinton
- Kehlani
- Kenny Iko (BET Amplified stage)
- KWN (BET Amplified stage)
- Le’Andria Johnson
- Lizzo
- Max B
- Nas
- Queen Latifah
- Rapsody
- RAYE
- Rick Ross
- selah
- Tems
- Tierra Whack
- T.I.
- The War and Treaty
- YG Marley
- Zion Marley
Queen Latifah, who previously hosted the BET Awards in 2010, is among the performers taking the stage this year. The War and Treaty, a duo with three nominations for vocal duo of the year at both the Country Music Awards and Academy of Country Music Awards, will also perform.
Presenters Lineup
Several celebrities will present awards throughout the evening. The list of presenters includes:
- Carl Anthony Payne II
- Chlöe Bailey
- Chris “Comedian CP” Powell
- Deon Cole
- DeRay Davis
- Diarra Kilpatrick
- Gail Bean
- Isaiah John
- Jaafar Jackson
- Jacob Latimore
- Keke Palmer
- Kelly Rowland
- Latto
- Luke James
- Nia Long
Jaafar Jackson, who portrayed his uncle Michael Jackson in the blockbuster biopic “Michael,” is among the presenters. The film recently topped “Bohemian Rhapsody” as the highest-grossing music biopic worldwide.
Special Honors at 2026 BET Awards
Three notable women in music and entertainment will receive special awards during the ceremony:
Ms. Lauryn Hill will receive the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award, sponsored by Sprite. The singer, songwriter, and actress has influenced generations of artists with her groundbreaking work.
Teyana Taylor, a 2026 Grammy and Oscar nominee, will be honored with the inaugural Icon of the Year Award, sponsored by Hyundai. Taylor has made significant contributions to music, film, and dance throughout her career.
Legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone will receive the Ultimate Icon Award, sponsored by Unstopables. Rhone has shaped the careers of countless artists over her decades-long career in the music industry.
2026 BET Awards Nominees
Cardi B leads this year’s nominations with six total nods, including Album of the Year for “Am I the Drama?” and Best Female Hip Hop Artist.
Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist follow with five nominations each. Artists with four nominations include Doechii, Doja Cat, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, Olivia Dean, and Latto.
Also Read:
How to Watch the 2026 BET Awards
The 2026 BET Awards airs live on Sunday, June 28, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on BET. The ceremony will also simulcast on BET Her, CMT, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Nickelodeon (NAN), Paramount, POP, VH1, Comedy Central, and TV Land.
Fans can also stream the show through various platforms that carry these networks.
For more entertainment news and updates on the biggest award shows and celebrity events, keep reading VvipTimes for the latest coverage straight from Hollywood and beyond.
