By Danielle Broadway
LOS ANGELES, June 28 (Reuters) – Teyana Taylor was a top winner on Sunday at the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards, which honors Black actors, singers, and sports stars.
The “One Battle After Another” actor took home four awards, including the special, noncompetitive honor of Icon of the Year, presented by singer Janet Jackson. She also won the Fashion Vanguard Award, Best Actress, and Video Director of the Year for the short film “Escape Room.”
“There would be no me without you,” Taylor said to Jackson during a tearful acceptance speech for the Icon of the Year award, which BET describes as honoring those who have paid homage to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact.
“I worked my ass off 20 years for this. So, I’m not accepting what I’ve earned with arrogance; I’m accepting what I’ve earned with gratitude,” she said.
The BET Awards were held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles and broadcast live on BET, as well as multiple Paramount-owned channels.
Comedian Druski, the youngest person ever to host the ceremony, opened with his comedic pastor persona, leading the audience in a humorous group prayer that blended jokes with tributes to spirituality.
The ceremony featured performances from Cardi B, Raye, T.I., Kehlani, Doechii, and Don Toliver.
Boundary-breaking music industry executive Sylvia Rhone was also honored with the BET Ultimate Icon Award, which recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact throughout their careers in the entertainment industry and the Black community.
“Tonight’s honor bears my name but really belongs to all of us who create culture. I’ve been fortunate to spend my life around extraordinary artists,” Rhone, 74, said as she accepted the award onstage.
“Black creativity is one of the most powerful forces in the world. It has shaped culture,” she said.
She emphasized that while technology is valuable, it is essential for Black creatives to preserve the soul and artistry of music for the next generation.
The 50-year veteran of the music industry is the first Black woman to have held various top level positions at a number of well-known record labels.
She has held executive roles at Epic Records, Universal Motown, Elektra, Atlantic, and East West, and is known for her mentorship, including her work with Missy Elliott, Brandy, and Busta Rhymes.
Other honors of the night included Cardi B winning Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and Lauryn Hill taking home the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award.
(Reporting by Danielle Broadway; Editing by Neil Fullick)
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