The 2026 BET Awards are already shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrations of Black music and culture this year, with BET unveiling an impressive first wave of performers ahead of the live ceremony on June 28th at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater.
Hosted by comedian and entertainer Druski, the annual event will bring together a mix of chart-topping superstars, hip-hop legends, R&B icons, and rising talent for a night of unforgettable performances and cultural moments.
Leading the lineup are Cardi B, Doechii, Don Toliver, Kehlani, and Tems, all set to take the stage as part of the show’s first round of confirmed performers. They will be joined by hip-hop and R&B heavyweights Rick Ross, T.I., Common, Jill Scott, and Queen Latifah, highlighting the event’s commitment to celebrating both contemporary stars and enduring trailblazers.
The show will also spotlight emerging talent, with acclaimed duo The War And Treaty and rising R&B artist kwn, who is set to perform on the BET Amplified stage. Meanwhile, longtime BET Awards staple MC Lyte will return as the show’s announcer, continuing a role that has become synonymous with many of the ceremony’s most memorable moments.
Adding to the excitement, French Montana and Max B are scheduled to reunite onstage, delivering a performance that is expected to be a major highlight for longtime fans.
Speaking about this year’s event, Connie Orlando, Executive Vice President of Specials, Music Programming, and Music Strategy at BET, described the ceremony as a celebration of the artists, visionaries, and cultural moments that continue to shape the community and advance culture. Explaining, “This year’s show brings together an extraordinary mix of legends, superstars, and emerging talent whose influence continues to resonate across generations. From powerful performances to historic tributes, we’re creating the kind of unforgettable moments that define the BET Awards. And we’re only getting started.”
BET has also confirmed that additional performers, presenters, and special guests will be announced in the lead-up to the ceremony.
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With £1m what would you do: I would do my part to provide opportunities to the less fortunate. Then do my best to change the world in my own way through sports and talent building.
