BET Awards 2026: List of the Performers and Presenters; Cardi B, Doechii, Tems, and More Set to Perform

Cardi B, the top nominee at the 2026 BET Awards with six nominations, is scheduled to perform during the ceremony, which will air live on Sunday, June 28, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Over the years, the BET Awards stage has earned a reputation as a showcase for rap icons, powerhouse vocalists, and unforgettable tributes from legendary artists that become lasting moments in popular culture.

From Beyoncé’s first solo appearance to Michael Jackson honoring James Brown, and the memorable water-themed performance by Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar, the BET Awards has consistently delivered standout live moments. This year’s lineup appears poised to continue that tradition.

The roster of performers for the 2026 BET Awards features a strong collection of artists known for their commanding stage presence.

Among the performers are several artists who also earned three or more nominations this year, including Doechii with four nominations, along with Jill Scott, Kehlani, Tems, and T.I., who each received three nominations.

Comedian and entertainer Druski will serve as host for the event. Queen Latifah, who previously hosted the BET Awards in 2010, is also set to perform. Hip-hop trailblazer MC Lyte will return in her longtime role as the show’s announcer.

Also scheduled to perform are The War and Treaty, which has earned three nominations for Vocal Duo of the Year from both the Country Music Awards and the Academy of Country Music Awards, and actor-rapper Common, who won the Academy Award for Best Original Song as a co-writer of “Glory” from Selma.

Jaafar Jackson, who portrayed his uncle Michael Jackson in the blockbuster biographical film Michael, is among the personalities expected to present awards or participate in the ceremony. The film Michael recently surpassed Bohemian Rhapsody to become the highest-grossing music biopic worldwide.

As previously announced, three women will receive special honors during the event. Ms. Lauryn Hill will be presented with the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award. Singer, songwriter, and actress Teyana Taylor, a 2026 Grammy and Oscar nominee, will receive the inaugural Icon of the Year Award. Veteran music executive Sylvia Rhone will be honored with the Ultimate Icon Award.

A complete list of performers and presenters is expected as part of the celebration.

Performers

• Alexia Jayy
• Ari Lennox
• Baby Keem
• BJ the Chicago Kid
• Cardi B
• Common
• Doechii
• Don Toliver
• Durand Bernarr
• Erica Campbell
• French Montana
• George Clinton
• Kehlani
• Kenny Iko (BET Amplified stage)
• KWN (BET Amplified stage)
• Le’Andria Johnson
• Max B
• Nas
• Queen Latifah
• Rapsody
• RAYE
• Rick Ross
• Tems
• T.I.
• The War and Treaty

Presenters & Participants

• Carl Anthony Payne II
• Chlöe Bailey
• Chris “Comedian CP” Powell
• Deon Cole
• DeRay Davis
• Diarra Kilpatrick
• Gail Bean
• Isaiah John
• Jaafar Jackson
• Jacob Latimore
• Keke Palmer
• Kelly Rowland
• Latto
• Luke James
• Nia Long

The 2026 BET Awards will be broadcast live on Sunday, June 28, at 8 p.m. ET on BET.