2025 BET Awards: Ayra Starr, Kendrick Lamar, others win big
Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has won her first-ever BET Award, taking home the Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards held at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles on Monday night. Her victory marks a major milestone after previously missing out in past editions, beating notable contenders including Rema and Tyla.
Despite her big win, Ayra Starr lost out on two other nominations — Best New Artist, which went to Leon Thomas, and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, won by SZA. Fellow Nigerian artist Tems, who had two nominations in the BET Her category, was edged out by Summer Walker.
The night belonged to American rapper Kendrick Lamar, who emerged as the biggest winner with five awards out of ten nominations, including Album of the Year for GNX and Best Male Hip Hop Artist.
Other notable winners included Chris Brown for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Doechii as Best Female Hip Hop Artist, and Denzel Washington and Cynthia Erivo as Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively.
South Africa’s TXC won Best New International Act, while Blue Ivy Carter was honoured with the Young Stars Award. In the sports category, Jalen Hurts and Angel Reese were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year.
The star-studded event celebrated excellence across music, film, and sports, shining a global spotlight on African talent.
