At the 2026 Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, Teyana Taylor emerged as one of the top winners, taking home four awards. The actor, known for her role in One Battle After Another, received the special non-competitive Icon of the Year honour, presented by singer Janet Jackson. She also won the Fashion Vanguard Award, Best Actress, and Video Director of the Year for the short film Escape Room.
Emotional acceptance for Icon of the Year
During her tearful acceptance speech for the Icon of the Year award, Taylor addressed Jackson directly, saying, "There would be no me without you." She reflected on her two-decade career, stating, "I worked 20 years for this. So, I'm not accepting what I've earned with arrogance; I'm accepting what I've earned with gratitude." The Icon of the Year award, according to BET, honours individuals who have paid homage to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact.
Hosting and performances
Comedian Druski, the youngest person ever to host the BET Awards, opened the ceremony with his comedic pastor persona, leading the audience in a humorous group prayer that blended jokes with tributes to spirituality. The event was broadcast live on BET and multiple Paramount-owned channels. Performances during the night included Cardi B, Raye, T.I., Kehlani, Doechii, and Don Toliver.
Sylvia Rhone receives Ultimate Icon Award
Boundary-breaking music industry executive Sylvia Rhone was honoured with the BET Ultimate Icon Award, which recognises individuals who have made a lasting impact throughout their careers in the entertainment industry and the Black community. Rhone, 74, said as she accepted the award onstage, "Tonight's honour bears my name but really belongs to all of us who create culture. I've been fortunate to spend my life around extraordinary artists." She added, "Black creativity is one of the most powerful forces in the world. It has shaped culture." Rhone emphasised that while technology is valuable, it is essential for Black creatives to preserve the soul and artistry of music for the next generation. A 50-year veteran of the music industry, Rhone is the first Black woman to have held various top-level positions at a number of well-known record labels.
Other winners
Other honours of the night included Cardi B winning Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and Lauryn Hill taking home the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award.
