Nigerian Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr has won the 2025 BET Award for Best International Act. The award ceremony took place Monday night at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. This was Ayra Starr’s first BET win and a major moment for Afrobeats and Nigerian music.
At just 21, Ayra Starr led all African nominees with three nominations. These included Best Female R&B/Pop Artist and Best New Artist.
Although she did not win in those two categories, her win as Best International Act was a huge moment. It shows how African music, especially Afrobeats, is gaining global attention.
A Big Win for Nigerian and African Music
Ayra Starr’s win stood out among a night dominated by American stars. Kendrick Lamar was the night’s biggest winner with five awards. Chris Brown won Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, and Doechii took home Best Female Hip Hop Artist.
Other Nigerian stars were also nominated. Tems received two nominations in the BET Her category. Shallipopi, known for his street-hop music, was nominated for Best New International Act. Rema, another strong Nigerian name, was also up for Best International Act, but Ayra Starr came out on top.
After the win, Roc Nation congratulated Ayra Starr on X (formerly Twitter). This public message sparked talk about a possible deal between Ayra Starr and the Jay-Z-owned label. Roc Nation manages major artists like Rihanna and Megan Thee Stallion.
Fans are now wondering if Ayra Starr will be joining their star-studded team. There has been no official word yet, but many believe it would be a strong move for her international career.
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The Night Also Celebrated Film, Sports, and Inspiration
The event went beyond music. It also recognized achievements in film, sports, and social impact. Cynthia Erivo won Best Actress, while Denzel Washington won Best Actor. The fan-favorite biopic Luther: Never Too Much took Best Movie.
Blue Ivy Carter, daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, won the YoungStars Award. She has made her presence felt with performances, fashion sense, and influence. Her win signals the beginning of a promising future.
Angel Reese was named Sportswoman of the Year. She’s a powerhouse on and off the court, building a name beyond sports. Jalen Hurts, a top NFL quarterback, won Sportsman of the Year for his strong leadership and skills.
Doechii Calls for Action Outside the BET Awards Venue
The BET Awards also reflected current social tensions. Doechii used her acceptance speech to call attention to protests happening outside the venue. “We can’t keep ignoring the people in the streets. This is a time to listen and act,” she said.
Other big winners include SZA, who took home Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, and Leon Thomas, who won Best New Artist. Summer Walker claimed the BET Her Award for Heart of a Woman. The inspirational gospel award went to GloRilla, Kirk Franklin, and Maverick City Music for Rain Down on Me.
Ayra Starr’s win comes as Afrobeats continues to grow around the world. It’s clear that Nigerian artists are not just participants—they are leading the wave. The industry’s future looks brighter as artists like Ayra Starr gain global recognition.
Full List of Winners – BET Awards 2025
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown
Best Group – Future & Metro Boomin
Best Collaboration – “Luther” – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Best Male Hip Hop Artist – Kendrick Lamar
Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Doechii
Video of the Year – “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
Video Director of the Year – Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Best New Artist – Leon Thomas
Album of the Year – GNX – Kendrick Lamar
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – “Rain Down on Me” – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo
Best Actor – Denzel Washington
Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much
YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter
Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese (Basketball)
Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts (Football)
BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
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