The network announced on Monday that the “Empire” star will
be hosting the annual awards ceremony, which is taking place Sunday, June 27 at
the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.
“For more than 20 years, the BET Awards have been a
celebration of Black creativity, art and excellence,” Henson said in a
statement. “Returning live, this year’s show will be unlike anything we have
ever seen before, and I am honoured to be sharing the stage with so many
powerful and prolific women in music and entertainment. The BET Awards will
once again be at the forefront of Black culture.”
Additionally, Queen Latifah will be honoured with the
prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The theme of this year’s ceremony is
the “Year of the Black Woman,” celebrating and honouring their immense impact
on the culture.
“Black women have been essential drivers of change
throughout history, from the political sphere to the cultural zeitgeist,”
Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET,
explained. “The BET Awards is the ultimate celebration of Black culture, and we
are looking forward to spotlighting and celebrating Black women during this
year’s show, recognizing them for everything they’ve accomplished and
applauding them for what’s to come.”
The nominations for this year’s ceremony were announced last
month. Megan Thee Stallion and DaBaby lead with seven nods each, followed
closely behind by Cardi B and Drake who both earned five nominations. See the
full list of nominations here, and tune into the 2021 BET Awards Sunday, June
27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.