In a move that’s left the culture scratching its head, BET has officially hit the brakes on both the 2025 BET Hip Hop Awards and the Soul Train Awards — two shows that have been staples in celebrating Black music, artistry, and culture.
According to Variety, the network confirmed both award shows are “suspended indefinitely.” Translation: no red carpet moments, no viral cyphers, no show-stopping Soul Train performances this year.
For decades, these two ceremonies have been more than just award nights — they’ve been cultural milestones. The Hip Hop Awards gave us unforgettable moments from legends like Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, and Busta Rhymes. The Soul Train Awards honored R&B and soul’s finest, from Anita Baker to Beyoncé. Now, with both events off the calendar, artists and fans are left wondering why now?
While BET hasn’t publicly detailed the exact reason behind the decision, the news comes at a time when the industry is feeling major shifts — from budget cuts across networks to evolving streaming strategies. But for many, that’s no excuse for taking away two of the few nationally televised platforms dedicated to Black music and excellence.
Fans have already taken to social media with frustration, calling the move a setback for the culture. “These shows aren’t just entertainment, they’re history,” one fan tweeted.
Whether this is just a temporary pause or the start of a bigger change, one thing’s clear — the community isn’t ready to let go of these cultural cornerstones without a fight.
