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BET Awards 2026 Are Tonight: 5 Things Viewers Should Be on the Lookout for

It's that time of the year again, when "culture's biggest night" is on full display in front of millions of TV watchers, meaning it's time for the annual BET Awards, tonight, on June 28 at 8 pm ET on BET. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the ceremony and welcomes 31-year-old comedian Druski as the host, the youngest in the show's history. While he is sure to provide plenty of laughs, and hotly contested races in categories are sure to draw their share of attention, there are five moments in particular that I think this year's BET Awards' audience should be keeping their eyes out for.

Cardi B's Performance

Following her epic Little Miss Drama Tour, Cardi B is set to hit the stage at this year's ceremony. With the experience of her first world tour under her belt, she's bound to have a newfound confidence on stage that will probably be impressive to both the avid and passive fans. While it's likely she will perform one or two songs from her Am I the Drama album, rumor has it that she's been working on new music. So who knows?

D'Angelo Tribute

Back on October 14, 2025, the music world lost a legend when neo-soul pioneer D'Angelo passed away after a fight with cancer. The BET Awards is hoping to honor the Grammy-winner's career with an all-star tribute that includes Ari Lennox, BJ the Chicago Kid, Durand Bernarr, George Clinton, RAYE, and appearances from D'Angelo's children.

Doechii Set to Hit the Stage

Going back to her Grammy Awards debut performance in 2025, Doechii has proven she's an electrifying force on stage. She has a presence and performance style that just draws you in. Paired with her dynamic wordplay and lyricism, she'll probably deliver a must-watch few minutes of entertainment.

Make Way for the Rap Vets like T.I., Nas, and Queen Latifah

Calling hip-hop heads everywhere, as legends T.I., Nas, and Queen Latifah are set to perform. These Grammy-winning rappers are certainly not novices to big stages and have several hits between them. T.I., in particular, has been on a comeback lately, with his smash hit, "Let 'em Know," making waves on the Billboard charts. Nas and Queen Latifah will be a part of the Lauryn Hill Living Legend Icon Award segment.

Druski Proving His Hosting Chops

Druski, of course, has to be on this list. As someone who finds his online skits hilarious, I think it's wonderful to see him get such a big platform to display his comedy chops. If he brings half of his comedic wit and timing from those skits to the BET Awards stage, he should help keep things entertaining and not leave many (if any) dull moments in the show in between the performances.

Again, the 2026 BET Awards air on Sunday, June 28, at 8 pm ET on BET, and simulcast on BET HER, CMT, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Nickelodeon, Paramount, POP, VH1, Comedy Central, and TV Land.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

2026 The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 3:49 PM.

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