The 2024 BET Awards held in Los Angeles featured a memorable acceptance speech by Usher that has since sparked controversy and fan backlash. During his speech, Usher spoke for 13 minutes, expressing gratitude to those who supported him throughout his career. However, large portions of his speech were censored by BET, leading to frustration among viewers. Usher touched on personal topics, including his father's absence and the father-like figures who played a significant role in his life. BET claimed that the silence was due to an audio malfunction and offered the full speech on their platforms. Usher has not commented on the incident. [ba74d549]
The 2024 BET Awards also saw the rise of Blue Ivy Carter, daughter of Beyonce and Jay-Z, who won the YoungStars Award. This win has generated mixed reactions from internet users, with some questioning the relevance of the award since Blue Ivy has not released any music of her own. Critics argue that the win is an example of nepotism, while others defend her talent and performance on her parents' world tour. This is Blue Ivy's second BET Award, as she previously won the BET HER Award in 2020 for her work on Beyonce's song 'Brown Skin Girl.' The internet's reaction to Blue Ivy's win has been divided, with some questioning the credibility of the organization and others celebrating her accomplishments.
In addition to the controversies surrounding Usher's speech and Blue Ivy's win, the 2024 BET Awards showcased the talent and style of Black celebrities in the entertainment industry. The ceremony featured performances from top artists such as Latto, Victoria Monét, and Taraji P. Henson. Latto delivered an electrifying performance of 'Sunday Service' and her newly-released single 'Big Mama'. Victoria Monét made her debut performance at the awards show, performing her songs 'On My Mama' and 'Alright'. Taraji P. Henson, who hosted the awards, paid tribute to Kendrick Lamar with her performance of 'Alright'. Other notable performers included Megan Thee Stallion, Usher, and DJ Khaled. Drake led all nominees with seven bids, and Usher received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement BET Award.
The 2024 BET Awards also included various red carpet events that showcased celebrity fashion. Taraji P. Henson, Chlöe and Halle Bailey, Bebe Rexha, Winnie Harlow, Vivica A. Fox, Niecy Nash, Irina Shayk, Halle Bailey, Chloe Bailey, Teyana Taylor, Saweetie, Tyla, and Heather Graham were among the celebrities featured. Each celebrity's outfit and accessories were described in detail.
Overall, the 2024 BET Awards provided a platform to celebrate Black excellence in music, television, film, and sports, while also generating controversies and mixed reactions.