Honouring Black performers, singers, actors, songwriters and artists: this was the goal of Black Entertainment Television (BET), an American TV channel, when it founded the eponymous awards ceremony in 2001.
To celebrate the awards turning 25 this year, BET has selected four legendary performers to receive a special recognition for their artistry, but also their advocacy: singer-songwriter Mariah Carey, rapper Snoop Dogg, actor Jamie Foxx and gospel singer Kirk Franklin are set to receive the Ultimate Icon Award at the ceremony, which will take place next month.