2025 BET Awards: Full Winners Breakdown

Nigerian music star Ayra Starr achieved a major career milestone on Monday night, winning her first-ever BET Award at the 2025 BET Awards held at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles. The “Rush” hitmaker took home the award for Best International Act, beating a competitive lineup that included Ghana’s Black Sherif, fellow Nigerian Rema, and South African sensation Tyla.

This win is particularly significant for Starr, who had previously been nominated but had never won. Her victory was met with excitement across the African music scene, solidifying her position as one of the continent’s fastest-rising stars.

Although she triumphed in the international category, Ayra Starr missed out on her two other nominations. Leon Thomas was named Best New Artist, while SZA took home Best Female R&B/Pop Artist.

The night, however, belonged to American rapper Kendrick Lamar, who emerged as the biggest winner with five awards from ten nominations. He walked away with major honors including Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, and Video of the Year for Not Like Us, among others.

2025 BET Awards: Full List of Winners

Album of the Year – GNX – Kendrick Lamar
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA
Best Group – Future & Metro Boomin
Best Collaboration – Luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Best Male Hip Hop Artist – Kendrick Lamar
Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Doechii
Video of the Year – Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar
Video Director of the Year – Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Best New Artist – Leon Thomas
Gospel/Inspirational Award – Rain Down on Me – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Viewer’s Choice Award – Residuals – Chris Brown
BET Her – Heart of a Woman – Summer Walker
Best International Act – Ayra Starr
Best New International Act – TXC (South Africa)
Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much
Best Actor – Denzel Washington
Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo
Young Stars Award – Blue Ivy Carter
Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts
Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese