The BET Awards 2025 proved once again why it's called Culture’s Biggest Night. Hosted by the one-and-only Kevin Hart, the show brought together the brightest stars across music, film, TV, and sports to celebrate the talent shaping the culture and pushing it forward. From iconic moments to major milestones, the night belonged to both legends and new-school favorites.

Kendrick Lamar was the evening’s undeniable standout, taking home four major awards, including for GNX, , for the viral smash “Not Like Us,” and alongside SZA for their soul-shaking track “Luther.” Lamar also shared honors with longtime creative partner Dave Free.

On the R&B side, took home , proving her artistry is still unmatched. snagged , while earned , thanks to their hit-filled collab album that shook up the charts and clubs alike.

Breakout talent got their flowers too. —the singer, songwriter, and former child actor turned solo star—was crowned , while continued her genre-bending rise with a win for .

The award went to for “Heart of a Woman,” a raw, emotional ballad that connected deeply with fans. And on the inspirational side, , , and took home the for their powerful collab “Rain Down on Me.”

In film and television, the awards spotlighted both classic excellence and rising talent. won , and added another trophy to his legendary career as . The fan-favorite biopic Luther: Never Too Much was named .

And in one of the night's most talked-about wins, received the , a full-circle moment of legacy and promise. She’s been making waves with her performances, fashion, and influence—proving Beyoncé and Jay-Z didn’t just raise the bar, they’re raising the next icon.

On the sports side, dominated as , continuing her streak of wins both on and off the court. , QB1 and fan favorite, earned honors for his performance and leadership in the NFL.

– SZA
– Chris Brown
– Future & Metro Boomin
– “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
– Kendrick Lamar
– Doechii
– “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
– Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
– Leon Thomas
– GNX – Kendrick Lamar
– “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo
Best Actor – Denzel Washington
Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much
YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter
Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese (Basketball)
Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts (Football)
BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker

As BET celebrates the 25th anniversary of the BET Awards and the network’s 45th year as a cultural institution, this year’s show was more than just an awards ceremony—it was a reflection of legacy, elevation, and the limitless future of Black excellence.