It’s official! 

BET’s fourth annual Black + Iconic Soirée is set to take center stage at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, and it’s all happening on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

The event celebrates Black LGBTQ+ excellence with Emmy-nominated actress and advocate Laverne Cox hosting, while Lavelle Dontae anchors the red carpet.

Presenters include Amara La Negra (“Love & Hip Hop: Miami”), Bryan Terrell Clark (“Diarra From Detroit”), Carter The Body and Eva Marcille (“All The Queen’s Men”), and Ty Young ( “Basketball Wives). 

This year’s honorees recognize leaders across culture and advocacy: Damon Jones, P&G’s chief communications officer, will receive the Executive Realness Award; Jason Lee, who will receive the Culture Trailblazer Award; Marquise Vilsón Balenciaga, who will receive the Active Advocate Award; and actress and media personality, TS Madison, who will take home the Miss Major’s Pioneer of the Year Award.

The Black + Iconic Soirée has grown since its Washington, D.C. debut, consistently centering the intersection of Blackness, queerness, and allyship. This year’s event is sponsored by Gilead Sciences and supported by Procter & Gamble, whose continued commitment to equity, health, and inclusive storytelling helps amplify the impact and reach of the Black + Iconic Soirée.

“As we enter our fourth year partnering with BET’s Black & Iconic, Gilead Sciences is proud to continue supporting platforms that elevate culture, amplify trusted voices, and strengthen connections across Black communities,” said Rashad Burgess, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility of Gilead Sciences. “Our work at Gilead is grounded in the belief that scientific breakthroughs only matter if they reach the people, they are designed to serve. Through sustained partnerships like this, we’re helping confront stigma, remove barriers to care, and advance healthier, more equitable futures.”

From the red carpet to powerful on-stage moments, the evening is sure to deliver unforgettable performances, bold fashion, and a celebration rooted in authenticity, community, and cultural influence.