Guess Who’s Leading the BET Awards 2026 Nominations?!

Cardi B Leads BET Awards 2026 Nominations

The 2026 BET Awards nominations are here, and Cardi B sits at the top of the list with six nods. She earned recognition across major categories, including Album of the Year, Best Female Hip Hop Artist, and Best Collaboration. The announcement highlights another strong year for Black music, film, and culture. Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist follow closely behind with five nominations each. (turn0search1)

This year’s show also adds new categories that spotlight fashion and digital influence. The BET Awards continue to expand how they celebrate Black creativity across multiple spaces. Fans can expect a mix of established legends and rising stars when the ceremony airs June 28. (turn0news16)

Cardi B Tops the List With Six Nominations

Cardi B leads with six nominations this year. Her categories include Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Album of the Year for Am I the Drama?, and Video Director of the Year. She also earned a nod in the new Fashion Vanguard category. (turn0search2)

Her strong showing reflects her continued influence in music and pop culture. Cardi B also stays visible in fashion and collaborations that keep her at the center of conversation. Fans continue to show strong support across music platforms and social media.

Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist Stay Close Behind

Kendrick Lamar earned five nominations this year, including Best Male Hip Hop Artist and multiple collaboration categories. His work continues to shape hip hop culture through both solo projects and features. (turn0search2)

Mariah the Scientist also secured five nominations. Her recognition includes Album of the Year and Video of the Year. Her growing presence in R and B continues to gain attention from both fans and industry leaders.

Other Artists Make a Strong Showing

Several artists follow closely behind with four nominations each. Doja Cat, Doechii, Latto, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, and Olivia Dean all made strong appearances on the list. (turn0search1)

This year also highlights collaborations across genres. Many nominated songs bring together different voices in hip hop, R and B, and gospel inspired sounds. That mix shows how wide Black music continues to stretch.

What Makes This Year Different

The BET Awards added two new categories this year, including the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award. These changes reflect how Black culture shows up in fashion, media, and digital spaces.

The ceremony airs live on June 28 at 8 p.m. Eastern on BET and partner networks. Fans can expect performances, tributes, and a celebration of Black excellence across entertainment. (turn0news16)

A Night That Celebrates Black Culture

The BET Awards continue to spotlight artists who shape music, film, sports, and style. This year’s nominations show strong competition and deep talent across every category.

For many fans, the event is more than awards. It is a celebration of creativity, influence, and culture that continues to evolve year after year.