The 2026 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, saw a star-studded celebration of Black culture, with Lizzo and Teyana Taylor among the prominent figures gracing the red carpet and receiving honors. Lizzo, 38, showcased a noticeable weight loss, drawing attention with a shimmering brown, ankle-length dress featuring sheer material. She completed her look with closed-toed heels, voluminous hair, and a selection of eye-catching earrings and rings.
Lizzo's makeup featured smoky eye shadow, mascara, a warm blush and highlighter on her cheekbones, and a nude-colored lip tint. The singer, who has been vocal about her "weight release" journey that began in 2023, stated her intention was not to "lose anything" but to "win" and be mindful of her influence on young audiences. She also reflected on how media coverage of weight changes has affected her and her responsibility to transmute these experiences into messages of comfort and reduced fear.
Among the evening's honorees, Lauryn Hill received the Living Legend Icon Award, Teyana Taylor was presented with the Icon of the Year Award, and record executive Sylvia Rhone accepted the Ultimate Icon Award. Lizzo herself has a history with the BET Awards, having won Best Female R&B/Pop Artist in 2020 and accumulating five nominations over the years.
Other notable appearances included Teyana Taylor in a strapless burgundy gown with a layered full skirt and a shimmering bodice accent, complemented by a matching headpiece. Kehlani made a statement in a fitted red dress with ruched details at the neckline and waist. Latto arrived in a sheer black gown with a small train and feathery detailing around the neck. Chloe Bailey wore a figure-hugging dress combining black velvet and shimmering silver material, with a train and dramatic neckline.
Janet Jackson presented a unique style featuring a black shirt layered over a white blouse, loose gray trousers, a black leather corset piece, and a silver-studded belt, accessorized with a black hat with a netted veil. Coco Jones opted for a red bandeau top with a matching sheer maxi skirt, paired with red heels and gold jewelry. Olandria Carthen turned heads in a vibrant yellow dress with a plunging cutout and a high slit, accessorized with gold strappy heels and jewelry.