Rapper Doechii, winner of best female hip-hop artist, used her time on stage to criticize US President Donald Trump for deploying military forces to quell protests in LA. Lamar, who took home five out of his 10 nominations at the BET Awards, thanked the platform for representing the culture accurately.

He won best album for GNX, best video for Not Like Us, and also clinched the award for video director of the year alongside filmmaker Dave Free. The ceremony, hosted by Kevin Hart, celebrated black actors, singers, and sports stars.

Demonstrations erupted after ICE raids in Latino neighborhoods, prompting Doechii to question the government's response to protests. Last year, Lamar dominated the BET hip-hop awards by winning eight out of 11 nominations.

Aside from Lamar, musicians Mariah Carey, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin received the ultimate icon awards for their contributions to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact. Actor Jamie Foxx, who accepted his award from Stevie Wonder, reflected on his recovery following a stroke in 2023.

During the event, Carey performed and received her award from Busta Rhymes, expressing gratitude for the Ultimate Icon Award. Wicked star Cynthia Erivo was named best actress, while Denzel Washington won best actor for his role in Gladiator II.

The ceremony also featured performances by R&B artist Ashanti, Lil Kim, Jim Jones, Amerie, Keyshia Cole, Mya, TI, B2K, Bow Wow, and Jermaine Dupri.