Los Angeles, CA – While most entertainment operations were forced to shutter during this global COVID-19 pandemic, the folks over at BET have deemed the show must go on.
Variety reports this year’s BET Awards broadcast — which simultaneously celebrates the network’s 40th anniversary and the revered honors’ 20th event — will be televised virtually on Sunday, June 28 “innovative techniques and artist-generated content.”
The annual three-day BET Experience which highlights star-studded concert series and celebrity competitions has been called off, however.
“The BET Awards are a seminal event – the biggest celebration of Black culture, Black accomplishment, Black excellence, and Black potential,” said Scott Mills, president of BET, tells Variety. “Our community, and the many millions who love Black culture, look to the BET Awards for signature moments of enrichment, entertainment and empowerment. Recognizing the unique role the BET Awards plays for so many, and the challenging times we find ourselves in, we know it was more important than ever to deliver the BET Awards in 2020.”
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Connie Orlando, EVP specials, music programming and music strategy at BET, spoke to the overall need for welfare and precaution while still putting on a high-caliber presentation.
“At BET, we place the health and safety of attendees, staff, vendors, and partners first, which is why the biggest night in black entertainment will go on implementing this innovative production direction,” she explained. “For the past 20 years, The BET Awards have paid homage to all things now and relevant. Despite the challenges of today, we will deliver a show filled with larger than life, inspiring, empowering and entertaining moments, which have shown the magic of our culture for over two decades.”
Beyoncé, Cardi B, Childish Gambino, Lil Baby, Nipsey Hussle and Travis Scott were among the prestigious Hip Hop and R&B talent who walked away with 2019 BET Awards.