BET Awards red carpet: Best of BET Awards 2023 Photo Gallery

Photo : Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

2023 BET Awards Red Carpet Photos

KJ Smith.

BET Awards history and facts.

The BET Awards has a rich history and several interesting facts associated with it. Here are some notable points about the BET Awards:

Inception: The BET Awards was established in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television (BET) network to celebrate African American and other minority achievements in music, entertainment, and sports.

Annual Ceremony: The BET Awards is an annual event, typically held in June, featuring live performances, special tributes, and the recognition of outstanding talent across various categories.

Recognizing Excellence: The awards honor achievements in music, acting, sports, and other entertainment fields, with categories such as Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Actress, and Best Movie.

Cultural Significance: The BET Awards holds cultural significance as it represents a platform to showcase and celebrate the diverse talents within the African American and Black communities in the entertainment industry.

International Reach: While the BET Awards primarily focuses on African American talent, it also recognizes contributions from artists and entertainers from around the world. The Best International Act category acknowledges global talent outside the United States.

Iconic Performances: The BET Awards has witnessed numerous memorable performances by some of the biggest names in music, including Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, Prince, Rihanna, and many more.

Humanitarian Efforts: The BET Awards often highlights important social issues and promotes awareness of various causes through its programming. The event includes segments dedicated to addressing social justice, activism, and community empowerment.

Viewer Engagement: The BET Awards encourages viewer participation through interactive features such as online voting for select categories and engaging with fans through social media platforms.

Special Awards: In addition to category awards, the BET Awards also presents special honors like the Lifetime Achievement Award, Humanitarian Award, and the BET International Global Good Award, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Evolution and Growth: Over the years, the BET Awards has evolved and expanded, reflecting the changing landscape of the entertainment industry and celebrating the achievements of emerging artists alongside established stars.

These facts highlight the significance and impact of the BET Awards as a prominent event in recognizing and honoring excellence in African American and Black entertainment.