Multi-Hyphenate Star Teyana Taylor Crowned Icon of the Year at 2026 BET Awards
"I have been working for 20 years for this recognition."
Teyana Taylor received the prestigious Icon of the Year award at the 2026 BET Awards, presented by the legendary Janet Jackson. Taylor also took home three additional awards during the ceremony, solidifying her status as one of the industry's most versatile talents.
Ceremony Details
Janet Jackson presented the Icon of the Year award to Taylor, delivering a heartfelt speech. During her acceptance, Taylor expressed genuine surprise at Jackson's appearance. She reflected on her two-decade journey, listing her professional roles as artist, actress, director, choreographer, creative director, stylist, designer, writer, producer, and chef. Taylor also noted she is scheduled to graduate in September 2026.
Additional Awards
Taylor swept several key categories at the 2026 BET Awards, winning:
- Best Actress
- Video Director of the Year
- Fashion Vanguard Award
Career Background
Taylor first gained recognition in the mid-2000s as a dancer and choreographer. At just 15 years old, she choreographed a music video for Beyoncé.
Music: She released her debut album VII in 2014, followed by three additional studio albums. Her 2025 release, Escape Room, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.
Awards: Taylor previously won BET Awards for Video Director of the Year in 2020 and 2023.
Film: Her acclaimed performance in the 2025 film One Battle After Another earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination.