The 2020 BET Awards was done virtually for the first time in its history on Sunday, June 28, amid the health crisis the world is facing today. The team of the award-giving body, previously, announced that the said awards show for this year would be aired virtually and would use technique innovations and artists’ cooperation in providing content to the viewers. 

For starters, the BET Awards was established 20 years ago to celebrate success and achievements of music, sports, television, and movies in the entertainment industry. The Sunday’s ceremony marked the 40th year of the Black Entertainment Television, and the nominees were announced on June 15. The awards show was hosted by actress-comedienne and “Insecure” star Amanda Seales.

Big Winners of the BET Awards 2020

Canadian rapper-songwriter Drake bagged 6 nominations, followed by the rapper-singer Roddy Richh and Megan Thee Stallion with a total of 5 nominations each.

Beyonce Knowles, who was first known as a member of “Destiny’s Child,” received this year’s Humanitarian Award, which honors her contribution and unconditional work at BeyGOOD in fighting racism during this time of crisis caused by the coronavirus.

Nicolas Johnson, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, and D-Nice were, also, recognized by BET as “Shine a Light” honorees because of their creative and innovative work of art during this diverse time. All of them demonstrated how an artist’s perspective in education and arts can inspire others, as per ET.

French anti-racist activist Assa Traoré was picked as the International Global Good recipient. She was recognized for using her unique platform in racing awareness for social responsibility and goodness, especially in raising the banner of the global Black community.

The full list of the BET Awards 2020 nominees and winners listed here.

BET Awards reimagining awards show in a post-pandemic setup

Earlier this year, BET launched a special airing of their network’s first list of shows under the manipulative circumstance of a pandemic, entitled “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief Effort.” At that certain time, Connie Orlando, the network’s EVP of specials, music programming and music strategy, expressed her uncertainty of producing an award show during these trying times.

But, BET emerged victorious. The 20th annual BET Awards was successfully aired virtually for three long hours with the  “Our Culture Can’t Be Cancelled” tagline. Former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama even graced the show.

Best moments from the virtual BET awards

Beyonce accepting her Humanitarian Award is one of the best moments in the show. The wife of Jay-Z urged the Americans to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections. “Thank you so much for this beautiful honor,” the singer said, following Michelle Obama’s introduction.

Another highlight of the event was DaBaby and Roddy Ricch’s “Rockstar” music video, which paid tribute to George Floyd’s death. The DaBaby was, then, awarded as Best Male Hip-Hop Artist. Roddy Richh, who was featured in the music video, won the Best New Album and Artist of the Year.

Check-out the new music video of “Rockstar:”