In the aftermath of the sensational slap that resonated worldwide, Will Smith will make his triumphant return to the stage with a brand-new, original song at the BET Awards, set to air live on the network on Sunday, June 30, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Though details surrounding Smith's performance remain shrouded in mystery, whispers from reliable sources suggest he's been hard at work on a fresh album. This appearance marks his comeback following a memorable cameo with Colombian star J Balvin at the Coachella festival in April, where he dazzled the audience in a full "Men in Black" ensemble during Balvin's extraterrestrial-themed performance.
Returning to host the awards is the esteemed Taraji P. Henson, while Grammy-winning singer Usher will be awarded the Lifetime Achievement BET Award. The night will also showcase performances by Ice Spice, Sexyy Red, Latto, Lauryn Hill & YG Marley, Tyla, GloRilla, Muni Long, Shaboozey, and Victoria Monét, with Tanner Adell taking the BET Amplified stage. The star-studded lineup also includes appearances by Cardi B, Davido, Gunna, the Roots, Common, Queen Latifah, and the Jungle Brothers. Drake leads the BET Awards nominations with a stellar seven nods.
"From his humble beginnings as a rap artist to becoming 'The Fresh Prince' and a box office sensation as part of the Bad Boys, Will Smith is an undisputed global icon," exclaimed Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. "We are thrilled to welcome him back to the BET Awards stage, where he will undoubtedly add another unforgettable chapter to our cultural celebration." Orlando will helm the show alongside executive producer Jamal Noisette, SVP of tentpoles & music community engagement. Jesse Collins Entertainment serves as the production company, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay also occupying executive producer roles.
