The BET Music Awards, hosted by Regina Hall, was in full swing last night with some of the hottest celebrities and star-studded performances. But the night’s most inspiring moments belonged to Mary J. Blige, the Exonerated Five, Tyler Perry, and the late Nipsey Hussle and John Singleton.
Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Raymond Santana and Korey Wise, now known as the Exonerative Five, made an appearance at last night’s BET Awards and received a standing ovation after each man spoke on their journey as the former Central Park Five.
Mary J Blige, who received last night’s Lifetime Achievement Award, performed her own tribute with nostalgic tracks such as “Real Love” and “You Remind Me.” Dressed in full ’90s gear, she took us back to the Bad Boy days and brought out Lil Kim and Method Man while Diddy danced in the crown.
After Taraji P. Henson presented Tyler Perry with the Ultimate Icon Award, Perry gave an inspiring speech that would resonate with the crowd and viewers alike. He honored the powerful women in his life, and shared a story of how his now 11-acre Tyler Perry Studios was once home to Confederate soldiers.
Last but not least, BET honored the late John Singleton and Nipsey Hussle with heartfelt memorials that moved the crowd to tears. Morris Chestnut and Damson Idris introduced a moving tribute with kind words about their mentor and friend. Nipsey Hussle’s family, including Lauren London, his daughter, parents and sister, celebrated his life while DJ Khaled and John Legend took the tribute “Higher” with a moving performance.
What did you think of last night’s BET Awards? See below for the full list of winners!
Best Female R&B / Pop Artist
Beyoncé
Best Male R&B / Pop Artist
Bruno Mars
Best Group
Migos
Best Collaboration
Travis Scott feat. Drake – “Sicko Mode”
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
Nipsey Hussle
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B
Video of the Year
Childish Gambino – “This Is America”
Video Director of the Year
Karena Evans
Best New Artist
Lil Baby
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
Snoop Dogg Feat. Rance Allen – “Blessing Me Again”
Best Actress
Regina King
Best Actor
Michael B. Jordan
Young Stars Award
Marsai Martin
Best Movie
“BlacKkKlansman”
Sportswoman of the Year Award
Serena Williams
Sportsman of the Year Award
Stephen Curry
Album of the Year
“Invasion of Privacy”
BET Her
H.E.R. – “Hard Place”
Coca-Cola Viewers’ Choice Award
Ella Mai
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