2025 BET Awards: Ayra Starr Wins Best International Act
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr marked a career milestone at the 2025 BET Awards, taking home the Best International Act award, her first-ever win at the event on Monday night.
The 21-year-old Afrobeats star, who had led all African nominees with three nominations, was up for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Best New Artist, and Best International Act. While Starr lost in the first two categories to SZA and Leon Thomas respectively, her win in the international category signalled growing global recognition for her sound and rise in the music industry.
Her victory was a standout moment on a night where other Nigerian nominees were left disappointed.
“As much as I’m honoured by this award, I do want to address what’s happening right now outside of the building,” she said. “There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order.”
She concluded to a standing ovation: “We all deserve to live in hope and not in fear… and we protest against it. Thank you, BET.”
The ceremony, held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles and hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, was dominated by U.S. acts particularly hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar, who swept up five major awards.
Lamar won Album of the Year for GNX, Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year for the viral Not Like Us, Best Collaboration with SZA on Luther, and Video Director of the Year, shared with longtime collaborator Dave Free.
