If there was one name everyone was talking about after the BET Awards 2026, it was Teyana Taylor. The singer, actress and creative powerhouse walked into the ceremony as one of the night’s biggest stars and walked out with four major awards, making it clear that this was her moment. From winning Best Actress to being named Video Director of the Year for Escape Room, Taylor dominated across multiple categories. She also received the newly introduced Fashion Vanguard Award before ending the night on the highest note possible with the Icon of the Year honor. Having Janet Jackson present the award only made the moment feel even more special.
Cardi B, who led this year’s nominations, added another trophy to her collection after winning Best Female Hip Hop Artist. Kendrick Lamar also continued what has already been an incredible awards season, taking home Best Collaboration alongside Clipse for Chains & Whips. Kehlani was named Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, while Leon Thomas successfully held on to his title as Best Male R&B/Pop Artist for a second straight year.
Another unforgettable highlight came when Lauryn Hill received the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award. Rather than simply accepting the honor, Hill was celebrated with an emotional tribute featuring some of today’s biggest artists, including SZA, Doechii, Queen Latifah, Nas, Doja Cat, Lizzo and Tems. It was one of those rare awards show moments that genuinely felt earned, reminding viewers just how deeply her music continues to influence generations of artists.
Michael B. Jordan was named Best Actor, while Doechii and SZA teamed up to win the BET Her Award. Young creator Jazzy’s World TV also had a breakthrough moment after taking home the YoungStars Award, proving the ceremony continues to recognize talent across generations.
Teyana Taylor wears TOM FORD by Haider Ackermann to accept the @BET Icon of the Year Award.#TOMFORD #TEYANATAYLOR pic.twitter.com/rYtssOFlB5
— TOM FORD (@TOMFORD) June 29, 2026
Beyond the trophies, the BET Awards once again showed why it remains one of the most entertaining nights on the awards calendar. Between the live performances, emotional speeches and genuine celebrations of Black excellence, the show managed to feel celebratory without losing sight of the artists and stories that shaped the past year.
Still, the biggest takeaway from the night was impossible to ignore. This belonged to Teyana Taylor. Whether it was her work behind the camera, her performances on screen or her fearless approach to fashion, she proved that her influence now stretches far beyond music. The BET Awards didn’t just celebrate her success. They cemented her status as one of the industry’s most versatile creative forces.