The BET Awards 2025 brought major heat this year, honoring the biggest voices in Black culture, music, and excellence. Hosted in classic BET fashion—with energy, surprise moments, and emotional tributes—the show highlighted those who shaped the sound, vision, and impact of 2025.
One of the night’s biggest wins? Kendrick Lamar, who took home Album of the Year for GNX, continuing his streak as a visionary in hip hop. The Compton-born rapper beat out a stacked category, once again reminding us why his pen stays undefeated.
R&B queen SZA snatched the trophy for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, showing the range and emotion that fans have come to worship. On the hip hop side, Doechii claimed Best Female Hip Hop Artist, solidifying her status as a leader of the new wave.
Leon Thomas III emerged as the Best New Artist, surprising fans who’ve watched his transition from actor to full-on chart-topper. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Ajuliacosta turned heads globally by winning Best New International Act, proving once again that the BET stage is a platform for the culture—worldwide.
Chris Brown’s hit “Residuals” secured the Viewer’s Choice Award, showing that his loyal fanbase still runs deep. And R&B soulstress Summer Walker brought home the BET Her award with her heartfelt track “Heart of a Woman.”
But the most emotional moment came when not one, but FOUR legendary names were honored with the Ultimate Icon Award:
- Mariah Carey
- Jamie Foxx
- Snoop Dogg
- Kirk Franklin
Their collective impact on music, entertainment, and Black legacy sparked standing ovations and social media fireworks.
Full List of BET Awards 2025 Winners
- Album of the Year: GNX – Kendrick Lamar
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Doechii
- Best New Artist: Leon Thomas III
- Viewer’s Choice Award: “Residuals” – Chris Brown
- Best New International Act: Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
- Ultimate Icon Award: Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, Kirk Franklin
- BET Her: “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “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
- Best Group – Future & Metro Boomin
- Best Collaboration – “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
- Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese (Basketball)
- Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts (Football)
- Video of the Year – “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
- Video Director of the Year – Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar