Lil Wayne will light up the stage at the 2025 BET Awards, bringing his legendary energy to a night dedicated to 25 years of Black culture, music, and influence. The announcement came on May 15, confirming a powerhouse lineup that includes Playboi Carti, GloRilla, Teyana Taylor, and Leon Thomas, who will make his BET Awards debut.
The annual celebration will be hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, who promises to bring his signature humor and star power to the silver anniversary of the network’s biggest night. “I’m truly honored to host the 25th BET Awards and celebrate the culture’s biggest night,” said Hart.
“This year marks the 25th anniversary, and my partners at Hartbeat, BET, and JCE are pulling out all the stops to make it a night to remember. It’s a black-tie affair, and you’re all invited”
Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET, emphasized the importance of this milestone year. “We’re setting the tone for a night that celebrates 25 years of impact, creativity, and Black culture,” she shared.
“With electrifying performances from some of the biggest names in music and an iconic comedic host, BET Awards 2025 will be a can’t-miss celebration of everything the culture represents”
In addition to the live performances, the show will honor 25 years of 106 & Park, the iconic music video countdown show that shaped a generation. Teyana Taylor and The Aunties Production are leading the creative direction of the tribute. Beloved hosts AJ Calloway, Free, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz, and Terrence J will reunite, joined by performers Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I., and more to relive the golden era of the show.
Kendrick Lamar leads this year’s nominations with 10 nods, followed closely by Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla, who each secured six.
The 2025 BET Awards will air live on Monday, June 9, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET, marking a historic moment in the legacy of the network and the culture it celebrates.
