Druski Hosts 2026 BET Awards as Cardi B Leads Nominees and Teyana Taylor, Ms. Lauryn Hill Receive Top Honors

The 2026 BET Awards are underway at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with comedian Druski serving as host for the night. The ceremony, airing live across multiple Paramount networks, features a packed lineup of performers including Cardi B, Common, Doechii, Don Toliver, French Montana, Kehlani, and Rick Ross, according to Decider.

Decider2026 BET Awards: How to Watch, Performers, and Honorees Announced

"Teyana Taylor will receive the Icon of the Year award, and Ms. Lauryn Hill will be honored with the Living Legend Icon Award."

These two major honors anchor the evening's recognition of legacy and influence, as the event also celebrates current chart-toppers and rising stars. Decider further noted that the show is taking place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Cardi B enters the night with a leading six nominations, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The outlet, which is maintaining a live-updating winners list, also reported that Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist each received five nominations. The strong showing by Cardi B and Kendrick Lamar underscores their continued dominance in hip-hop, while Mariah the Scientist's five nods mark a notable breakthrough.

"Cardi B leads the nominees with six mentions, followed by Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist with five each."

The Hollywood Reporter also confirmed that the ceremony is being held live on Sunday night at the Peacock Theater, hosted by Druski. As the winners are announced in real time, the BET Awards continue to serve as a major platform for Black culture and music, blending competitive recognition with celebratory performances and tributes.