BET Awards 2026: Lauryn Hill to Receive Living Legend Icon Award

Lauryn Hill is adding another major accolade to her legendary career.

BET has announced that the multi-hyphenate icon will receive the Living Legend Icon Award at the BET Awards 2026, cementing her status as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

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News of the honor was shared moments ago.

The honor will be presented during Culture’s Biggest Night, which airs live on June 28 from Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater.

BET Honors a Cultural Trailblazer

According to BET, the Living Legend Icon Award recognizes pioneers whose contributions have remained essential to culture across generations.

Hill’s impact unquestionably fits the bill.

After first rising to global prominence with The Fugees and the blockbuster success of ‘The Score’, the New Jersey native reshaped music history with her landmark solo debut, ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.’

BET Praises Hill’s Lasting Influence

Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy, BET said in a statement:

“Ms. Lauryn Hill is the very definition of a living legend. Across every era, she has never chased the moment; she has shaped it. Her artistry redefined what was possible in our music and gave a generation permission to be fearless, spiritual, and free. Her influence is woven into the fabric of the culture, and it is a profound honor to celebrate her legacy on Culture’s Biggest Night.”

With an influence that continues to echo through today’s biggest stars, Hill’s latest honor serves as another reminder of the enduring power of her artistry.