BET Awards 2026: Kehlani, Teyana Taylor Among Early Winners (UPDATING LIVE)

The BET Awards 2026 ceremony is underway, with early accolades recognizing prominent figures in music and entertainment. The event, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, has already seen Kehlani honored with the award for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist. Leon Thomas also received an early win, taking home the award for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist.

Further highlights from the initial stages of the awards include a special presentation to Teyana Taylor. Music icon Janet Jackson presented Taylor with the highly esteemed Icon Award, acknowledging Taylor's significant contributions and impact on the entertainment landscape. The BET Awards annually celebrate achievements in music, acting, sports, and other fields within the Black community.

The ongoing ceremony is expected to announce a range of other awards across various categories. These include accolades for Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Album of the Year, and Video of the Year, among others. The event serves as a significant platform for recognizing and honoring Black excellence and cultural influence.

As the BET Awards 2026 continue, audiences anticipate further announcements and performances. The event's progression will reveal additional honorees and highlight the year's most impactful work in R&B, hip hop, and related cultural spheres. The ceremony's conclusion will mark the full recognition of this year's achievements.