Last night, BET honored Black excellence in music, television, film, and sports across more than 20 categories at the “BET Awards” 2022.
Hosted by Academy Award-nominated and Golden Globe-winning actor, writer, director, producer, and philanthropist Taraji P. Henson, the iconic show aired live on BET from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Silk Sonic, Jazmine Sullivan and Kirk Franklin took top honors. An array of artists delivered unforgettable and sensational surprise performances, including Latto with Mariah Carey, Jack Harlow with Brandy, and Lil Wayne. Many artists also spoke out about the repeal of Roe v Wade and Gun Control. The night also included a star-studded tribute to Sean “Diddy” Combs who was honored with the BET Lifetime Achievement Award, making the show once again the #1 trending topic on Twitter.
The “BET Awards” 2022 celebrated the very best in entertainment and culture with performances and appearances by an inspiring lineup of artists, entertainers and cultural icons. The “BET Awards,” which has become synonymous with powerful Black artistry and social commentary, continued to spotlight and celebrate the artists and creators of tomorrow, making the ceremony one of the most news-provoking and talked-about broadcasts this year.
Lizzo opened the show with a stunning high-energy performance of “About Damn Time” from her forthcoming album.
Jack Harlow, DJ Drama and Lil Wayne hit the stage to perform their hit “Poison”– and later shocked the crowd with a surprise appearance by one of our favorites Brandy, to perform her “First Class” freestyle.
Kirk Franklin and Maverick City Music took the stage for an uplifting gospel performance of “Kingdom” and “Melodies From Heaven.” Later in the evening, Lil Baby and Kirk Franklin won this year’s Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award. During his acceptance speech, Kirk Franklin graced the award and passed the baton to collaborator Maverick City Music as the “next generation of gospel music.”
Billy Porter brought ballroom dance culture to the main stage with a spirited dance performance featuring Dominique Jackson, Shaun Ross, Chacha Balenciaga, Shannon Balenciaga and more.
Diddy was honored with this year’s Lifetime Achievement BET Award, in recognition of his prolific career over the past three decades, in which he remained one of the most successful entrepreneurs and cultural icons of all time. Following a nostalgia-filled tribute from Jodeci, performing “Come & Talk to Me,” and Mary J. Blige, performing “I’m Going Down’‘ he performed a medley of Bad Boy Records hits with an all-star line-up including Shyne, Lil Kim, Bryson Tiller, Faith Evans, who should of had her own set and Maverick City Music.
Marsai Martin was awarded the Youngstar Award, given to those who have made an impact in the world of television, film, music, or sports. This washer third win in the category.
Chlöe delivered a sultry performance of her hits, including “Surprise,” “Have Mercy” and Treat Me.”
After being introduced by Babyface and Kanye West, Diddy received a standing ovation as he accepted the well-deserved award. In his speech, Diddy announced he will be donating $1 million to Howard University, and an additional $1 million to Deion Sanders and Jackson State University.
Complete list of winners for the “BET Awards” 2022;
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
An Evening with Silk Sonic – Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic
BEST COLLABORATION
Wizkid feat. Justin Bieber & Tems – “Essence”
BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST
Jazmine Sullivan
BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST
The Weeknd
BEST NEW ARTIST
Latto
BEST GROUP
Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic
BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Megan Thee Stallion
BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Kendrick Lamar
DR. BOBBY JONES BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
Lil Baby and Kirk Franklin – “We Win”
BET HER AWARD
Mary J. Blige – “Good Morning Gorgeous”
BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT
Tems (Nigeria)
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar – “Family Ties”
VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Anderson .Paak a.k.a. Director .Paak
BEST MOVIE
King Richard
BEST ACTRESS
Zendaya
BEST ACTOR
Will Smith
YOUNGSTARS AWARD
Marsai Martin
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Naomi Osaka
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Stephen Curry
Photos from The BET Awards 2022 + BET Weekend from House of BET, Host Dinner and Pre-show VIP Lounge!
