Entertainment
Kendrick, Doechii and Ayra Starr Win Big at the 25th BET Awards
The 25th BET Awards brought fire, fashion, and unforgettable energy to Los Angeles as comedian Kevin Hart took the stage as host for the night. The star-studded celebration, which marked a major milestone for the network, was a mix of powerful performances, touching moments, and big wins that had everyone talking.
Kendrick Lamar was the night’s top winner, raking in major trophies including Album of the Year for GNX, Video of the Year for his track “Not Like Us,” and Best Male Hip Hop Artist. He also shared the Video Director of the Year award with creative partner Dave Free, making it clear that Kendrick isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Doechii made history of her own, snagging Best Female Hip Hop Artist.
During her speech, she shifted gears from music to real-world issues, addressing concerns about immigration and the growing military presence in Los Angeles. It was a bold moment that struck a chord with many viewers.
One of the most emotional parts of the evening came when the Ultimate Icon Awards were presented. Mariah Carey, in a huge moment, received her first-ever BET Award and was honored for her legacy in pop and R&B. Jamie Foxx, still recovering after a health scare last year, was visibly moved as he accepted his award, thanking fans and colleagues for their support. Snoop Dogg and Kirk Franklin also received the honor, each celebrated for decades of cultural influence and artistic excellence.
The awards weren’t just about veterans though. Rising artist Leon Thomas was named Best New Artist, marking a big step in his fast-growing career. R&B favorite SZA took home Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, while Chris Brown snagged Best Male R&B/Pop Artist and the Viewers’ Choice Award.
Global talent also got a moment to shine. Nigerian singer Ayra Starr proudly accepted the award for Best International Act, representing West Africa on one of music’s biggest nights. It was a huge win for both her and Afrobeats fans around the world.
Additionally, the show paid tribute to 25 years of BET Awards history with a nostalgic 106 & Park segment. Hosts from different eras—like Free, AJ Calloway, Terrence J, and Rocsi Diaz—returned to the stage alongside acts like Bow Wow, Amerie, Mya, B2K, Jim Jones, and T.I., creating a throwback moment that had longtime fans cheering.
The long-awaited trial in the murder case of legendary rapper Tupac Shakur has reached a major development, with Duane “Keffe D” Davis sentenced to 40 years to life in prison on October 13, 2026.
Davis was convicted of first-degree murder in August 2026 for his role in orchestrating the 1996 killing. Tupac was shot in a drive-by attack in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, and died six days later.
During the sentencing, the judge addressed Davis, rejecting his claims that he had changed his life and moved on from his past. “Mr. Davis, for three years, I’ve heard you say some variation of the same thing to law enforcement, [in interviews], in your book, and it’s something like, ‘Yeah, I was involved in this, but I’m different. I’ve moved on. I got out of Compton. I’m a grandfather now.’ I’m here to tell you that’s not how this works,” the judge said.
She continued “You don’t get to take a man from his family. You don’t get to take his very life, his whole future from him, and just walk away from it. Especially when that man is Tupac Shakur.
“The world never forgot about him and his death, and neither did Las Vegas. It took us 30 years, but at this time, you are going to face justice for what you did on Sept. 7, 1996.”
Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has reflected on how his perception of YouTube movies has changed over the years. The actor recalled that there was a time when he looked down on movies released on YouTube.
However, he now appreciates the opportunities they have provided for his career and joked that he might have struggled financially if he had continued to dismiss them.
Sharing his thoughts in a post on X, Egbuson wrote “Can’t believe I was looking down on YouTube movies at some point. Hunger go don kpai me by now.”
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has advised young people who are still living with their parents not to rush into moving out because of peer pressure.
The singer encouraged young people to focus on their personal circumstances rather than compare their lives with those of others. He noted that there is no need to leave their parents’ homes simply because they want to feel independent.
Sharing his advice, Dakolo said “No hurry, leave your papa house because of peer pressure. Forget all that, ‘I don’t have my freedom here.’”
Judge Tells Duane Davis He Must Face Justice for Tupac’s Murder
Timini Egbuson Reflects on Embracing YouTube Movies in Nollywood
