Ayra Starr Shines as Best International Act at 2025 BET Awards

Afrobeats sensation, Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has been crowned Best International Actat the 2025 BET Awards, held Monday night at the prestigious Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

The 22-year-old Nigerian star beat a competitive lineup that included fellow Nigerian Rema, South Africa’s Tyla, and Ghana’s Black Sherif, among others. Her win marks a major milestone in her international career, following consistent recognition since her first BET nomination in 2022.

Since breaking into the global scene, Ayra Starr has received nods in key categories including Best New International Act (2022), Best International Act (2023), and the BET Her Award (2024) for her hit single “Commas”. In 2025, she earned three nominations and ultimately clinched the top prize for international excellence.

The awards ceremony, hosted by comedian Kevin Hart — returning after previously hosting in 2011 — featured sharp jabs at pop culture figures and celebrated outstanding achievements in music, film, sports, and culture.

The night’s biggest winner was American rapper Kendrick Lamar, who swept four categories including Album of the Year (GNX), Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year (“Not Like Us”), and Best Collaboration with SZA for “Luther.”

Other major winners include:

• Best Female R&B/Pop Artist – SZA

• Best Male R&B/Pop Artist – Chris Brown

• Best New Artist – Leon Thomas

• Best Female Hip Hop Artist – Doechii

• Best Gospel/Inspirational Song – “Rain Down on Me” by GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin & Maverick City Music

• Best Movie – Luther: Never Too Much

• Best Actress – Cynthia Erivo

• Best Actor – Denzel Washington

• YoungStars Award – Blue Ivy Carter

• Sportswoman of the Year – Angel Reese

• Sportsman of the Year – Jalen Hurts

• BET Her Award – “Heart of a Woman” by Summer Walker

• Best New International Act – TxCT (South Africa) and Ajuliacosta (Brazil)