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BET is rolling out the red carpet for legends at the 2025 BET Awards, honoring four titans of music and entertainment with the prestigious Ultimate Icon Award. Read more about who’s being honored inside.
As part of the 25th anniversary celebration of “Culture’s Biggest Night,” Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg will be recognized for their decades of game-changing impact across music, film, advocacy, and culture. The highly anticipated show will air live on Monday, June 9 at 8 PM ET/PT, hosted by comedian and actor Kevin Hart.
Mariah Carey, the best-selling female artist of all time, continues to set records with 200 million albums sold and 19 Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles. Her five-octave vocal range and undeniable influence have shaped modern pop. In 2025, Carey also celebrates the 20th anniversary of her landmark album The Emancipation of Mimi, cementing her legendary status.
Jamie Foxx, an Oscar and Grammy-winning entertainer, is being recognized not only for his groundbreaking film and music career but also for his work behind the scenes through his Foxxhole Productions banner. From Back in Action to his #1 Netflix comedy special What Had Happened Was…, Foxx continues to dominate across platforms.
Kirk Franklin, a 20-time Grammy winner, has revolutionized Gospel music for more than 30 years. Fusing gospel with R&B, hip-hop, and pop, Franklin has pushed boundaries while uplifting communities, solidifying his status as one of the genre’s most important figures.
Snoop Dogg, a cultural icon with over 40 million albums sold and 21 studio releases, has influenced music, fashion, and business globally. Recently named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, Snoop continues to evolve as an entertainer, entrepreneur, and mogul.
The 2025 BET Awards will also feature performances by Lil Wayne, Teyana Taylor, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, and Leon Thomas. Kendrick Lamar leads nominations with ten, while Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla each received six.
In addition, BET will commemorate 106 & Park’s 25th anniversary with a nostalgic tribute featuring hosts AJ & Free, Terrence J, Rocsi, and performances by Bow Wow, Amerie, and more.
As BET marks a milestone year, this star-studded celebration is set to honor icons while celebrating the past, present, and future of Black excellence.
Who’s watching?
