In what’s widely considered the most powerful awards show speech of the decade, Jesse Williams delivered a poetic, blistering callout of police brutality, white privilege, and Black resistance: “Just because we’re magic doesn’t mean we’re not real.” Church. Mic drop. Forever etched in cultural memory.

Gracious, grounded, and bold—Latifah thanked her longtime partner, her son, and wished everyone a Happy Pride. That subtle, beautiful acknowledgment marked a milestone in representation—and felt like a deep exhale for so many.

Nicki’s early speeches were unpredictable and unforgettable. In 2010, she used her moment to shout out women in rap, spark gossip with a cryptic “freeing herself” line, and declare that “this is for every little Black girl watching”—setting the tone for the decade to come.

After sweeping the 2024 show, Killer Mike took a breath and said what we needed to hear: “I want to say to Black men that it’s never too late… you can do it too.” It was part sermon, part therapy, and full-on encouragement for a generation of men often left behind.

She wasn’t accepting an award, but Taraji’s host speech set the night’s tone: funny, fast, political, and rooted in love for Black women. “We are the culture,” she reminded everyone, before switching wigs and getting back to work.

While Prince didn’t say much (because he didn’t have to), the silence was golden—and the few words he did say were elegant, gracious, and mysterious. It was the most Prince thing ever—and left the room hanging on every syllable.

An unexpected win for the crooner, Andra sparkled with glamour and gratitude. She thanked her BET family for the support she received since being on the New Talent Stage, as well as many others. Her speech was a masterclass in grace and conviction.

Accepting the award mid-pandemic, Lizzo turned her speech into a celebration of body positivity, music’s healing power, and gratitude for BET being “one of the few places that always celebrates big Black girls.” Period.

In the wake of losing her mother and amid industry drama, Meg broke down during her speech—but still took the moment to thank women who support women. Vulnerability and strength, all in one breath.

A surprise win for many, Badu used the moment to remind everyone that Black women have always been the visionaries behind the camera too. “We’ve been directing energy since the beginning of time,” she said, headwrap and all.

 BET Awards speeches hit different. They aren’t PR-polished—they’re emotional, electric, and often exactly what the culture needs to hear. In a world where silence is safe, the BET stage stays loud—and we’re better for it.

Watch the BET Awards 2025 on June 9th at 8 PM on BET.