Award-winning Nigerian singer and Afrobeats powerhouse Ayra Starr has clinched the coveted 2025 BET Award for Best International Act, solidifying her status as a global music icon.
The 22-year-old star triumphed over stiff competition from fellow African artists, including Tyla (South Africa), Rema (Nigeria), and Black Sherif (Ghana), further underscoring the worldwide appeal and cultural influence of African music.
The BET Awards 2025, held on Monday night at the prestigious Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, celebrated Black excellence across music, film, sports, and culture. The evening was hosted by comedic legend Kevin Hart, who kept audiences entertained with his trademark humor and charisma.
Ayra Starr’s victory marks a significant milestone in her meteoric rise. She was previously nominated for Best New International Act in 2022, Best International Act in 2023, and took home the BET Her Award in 2024 for her hit single “Commas.”
Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar dominated the night with four major wins, including:
- Album of the Year – GNX
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist
- Video of the Year – “Not Like Us”
- Best Collaboration – “Luther” with SZA
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
- Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts
- BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” – Summer Walker
- Best New International Act – TxCT (South Africa), Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
- Best International Act – Ayra Starr
- Viewer’s Choice Award – “Residuals” – Chris Brown
This historic win not only celebrates Ayra Starr’s growing global influence but also cements Afrobeats as a powerful force on the international music stage.
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