2025 BET Awards: Ayra Starr, Kendrick Lamar, Win Big [Full list]

Nigerian singer Ayra Starr has won her first-ever BET Award, taking home the prestigious Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards held Monday night at the Peacock Arena in Los Angeles.

Her victory marks a major milestone after missing out in previous years. She beat out top contenders, including fellow Nigerian star Rema and South African sensation Tyla, to claim the award.

However, Ayra Starr fell short in her two other nominated categories—losing Best New Artist to Leon Thomas and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist to SZA.

Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian artist Tems, who was nominated twice in the Best Her category, lost out to Summer Walker.

American rapper Kendrick Lamar emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing five awards out of his ten nominations.

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

Dr. Bobby Jones Best 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 Award
Angel Reese