Teyana Taylor wins big at the BET Awards

Teyana Taylor took home four awards at the BET Awards, Photo: AP PHOTO Teyana Taylor was the top winner at the Black Entertainment Television Awards, which honours black actors, singers, and sports stars. After Another actress took home four awards, including the special, non-competitive honour of Icon of the Year, presented by singer Janet Jackson at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday. She also won the Fashion Vanguard Award, Best Actress, and Video Director of the Year for the short film Escape Room. Teyana Taylor was overwhelmed when Janet Jackson presented her award. "They did not tell me Janet was coming," she said. "There would be no me without you," Taylor said to Jackson during a tearful acceptance speech for the Icon of the Year award, which BET describes as honouring those who have paid homage to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact. "I worked my ass off 20 years for this. So, I'm not accepting what I've earned with arrogance; I'm accepting what I've earned with gratitude," she said. Comedian Druski, the youngest person ever to host the ceremony, opened with his comedic pastor persona, leading the audience in a humorous group prayer that blended jokes with tributes to spirituality. The ceremony featured performances from Cardi B, Raye, T.I., Kehlani, Doechii, and Don Toliver. Cardi B won Best Female Hip-Hop Artist. Boundary-breaking music industry executive Sylvia Rhone was also honoured with the BET Ultimate Icon Award, which recognises individuals who have made a lasting impact throughout their careers in the entertainment industry and the black community. "Tonight's honour bears my name but really belongs to all of us who create culture. I've been fortunate to spend my life around extraordinary artists," Rhone, 74, said as she accepted the award onstage. "Black creativity is one of the most powerful forces in the world. It has shaped culture," she said. She emphasised that while technology is valuable, it is essential for black creatives to preserve the soul and artistry of music for the next generation. The 50-year veteran of the music industry is the first black woman to have held various top level positions at a number of well-known record labels. She has held executive roles at Epic Records, Universal Motown, Elektra, Atlantic, and East West, and is known for her mentorship, including her work with Missy Elliott, Brandy, and Busta Rhymes. Other honours of the night included Cardi B winning Best Female Hip-Hop Artist and Lauryn Hill taking home the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award.