Will Smith has just been added to the line of performers at this year’s BET Awards.
According to reports, Smith will debut his new song at the award show. After the announcement was made, Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET said in a statement, “From his start as a rapper to The Fresh Prince to being a box office king as one of the Bad Boys, Will Smith is truly a global icon, and we are honored to welcome him back to grace the BET Awards stage.”
She added, “We look forward to Will adding to yet another defining night for the culture that is not to be missed.” Smith’s performance has been added to a line-up of star-studded performers including Tyla, Victoria Monét, Muni Long, Ms. Lauryn Hill, YG Marley, and many more.
Actress Taraji P will host this year’s BET Awards. Usher is set to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. However, Drake is currently in the lead with seven nominations. This announcement comes after Smith’s latest movie “Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die,” also starring Martin Lawrence, excelled box office projections and debuted at $56 million.
This announcement also comes after Stephen A. Smith recently voiced his opinion on the actor infamously slapping Chris Rock at the 94th Annual Academy Awards. In a now-viral clip, the sports commentator, says that Will Smith needs to apologize to the Black community for slapping the comedian after he made a joke about Jada Pinkett-Smith.
The 2024 BET Awards will air on Sunday, June 30th at 8 pm.