LOS ANGELES — Druski hosted the BET Awards live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. EDT on Sunday, June 28, 2026. Druski became the youngest host in BET Awards history, surpassing Kevin Hart, who previously held the distinction when he hosted in 2011.

Druski entered the ceremony descending from the rafters in a harness while a choir performed Kirk Franklin's "Revolution." MC Lyte served as the show's announcer. Comedian Druski indicated his appreciation for the hosting opportunity, stating, "I grew up watching the BET Awards." Discussing his role, Druski said, "To know the comedic legends that hosted before me set the bar so high, I'm just grateful to be a part of the history."

During the ceremony, Lauryn Hill received the Living Legend Icon Award. Sylvia Rhone was presented with the Ultimate Icon Award, and Teyana Taylor received the Icon of the Year Award. Rhone was the first Black woman to lead a major record company owned by a Fortune 500 corporation. Hill was a member of the Fugees before releasing her solo debut, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." Taylor starred in "One Battle After Another."

The first wave of performers included artists such as Cardi B, Common, and Jill Scott. Kehlani performed "Folded" with Jamie Foxx and Anelise Estelle Foxx on guitar during the opening performances. Don Toliver performed "E85" and "Body." Cardi B led the nominations with six nods, while Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist each received five nominations. Doechii, Doja Cat, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, Olivia Dean, and Latto each received four nominations. The nominees for Album of the Year included Cardi B for "Am I the Drama?," Clipse for "Let God Sort Em Out," and Mariah the Scientist for "Hearts Sold Separately." Song of the Year nominees included Kendrick Lamar and SZA for "Luther," and Mariah the Scientist for "Burning Blue." The awards featured categories such as the Pulse Award for creator and content series and the Fashion Vanguard Award for cultural impact in fashion.