LOS ANGELES (CONVERSEER) – Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has won her first-ever BET Award, taking home the Best International Act at the 2025 BET Awards held on Monday night at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
The 21-year-old singer, known for her distinct blend of Afropop and R&B, emerged victorious in a highly competitive category, marking a significant milestone in her fast-rising global career. Starr led all African nominees this year with three nominations — Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Best New Artist, and Best International Act — but it was her international recognition that earned her a win.
SZA and Leon Thomas won the other two categories where Starr was nominated, respectively.
Despite strong representation from Nigeria, other nominated artists fell short. Tems, who had two nods in the BET Her category for her tracks “Burning” and “Hold On” from her debut album Born In The Wild, lost to Summer Walker’s “Heart of a Woman.”
Street-hop star Shallipopi was in contention for Best New International Act, while Rema also vied for Best International Act, but both were unsuccessful.
The evening largely favoured American artists, with Kendrick Lamar dominating the awards. He clinched five honours, including Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year for Not Like Us, Best Collaboration with SZA on Luther, and Video Director of the Year, which he shared with Dave Free.
Other major wins included Chris Brown for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, and Future & Metro Boomin for Best Group following the success of their joint album. Rising rapper Doechii won Best Female Hip Hop Artist, using her acceptance speech to bring attention to protests taking place outside the venue.
The 2025 BET Awards was hosted by comedian Kevin Hart and featured appearances and performances from top names in music, film, and sports.
Other Key Winners:
- BET Her Award: Heart of a Woman – Summer Walker
- Best Movie: Luther: Never Too Much
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Cynthia Erivo
- Young Stars Award: Blue Ivy Carter
- Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese
- Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Hurts
Ayra Starr’s historic win solidifies her status as one of Africa’s most promising global exports and reflects the growing impact of Afrobeats on the international music scene.
