This 6th annual event showcases what extraordinary looks like, from the best and brightest in the African American community. Recipients of BET Honors achieve at exceptional levels in the fields of music, sports, entertainment, media, service and education. Hosted by actress Gabrielle Union, in several wardrobe changes, this year’s class of honorees range from the business acumen, of Clarence Avant, to the atheltisicism of Lisa Leslie.
With tribute performances by Erykah Badu, Ledisi, Mint Condition, Brandy, Kem, Wayne Brady with a harp, and Alicia Keys, the 2013 BET Honors Awards recognizes the remarkable efforts of those working tirelessly to uplift the community.
Presented by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Civic leader, philanthropist, advisor, and the mentoring Godfather of Black Music, Clarence Avant recognized for the Entrepreneur Award, is one of the entertainment industry’s most influential figures. Founder of Sussex Records, and Tabu Records, Avant brought the world The S.O.S. Band, Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, as well as taking part in the launch of LaFace Records.
Supporter and chair member of the Jenesse Center in Los Angeles, California, Halle Berry and the Jenesse Center work to assist victims of domestic violence and aims to change the abuse in the lives of women and children. Halle Berry has garnered humanitarian acclaim for her work with several non-profit organizations and causes. An ambassador for the Callaway Golf Foundation for Women’s Cancer Initiative. Phylica Rashaad presents Honors Service Award to Ms. Halle Berry.
Cedric the Entertainer presented the Education Award to Bishop T.D. Jakes. His worldwide impact is felt through and empire spanning film, television, radio, books, and plays. Jakes’ Potter House offers educational programs to its community, as well as the family oriented Megafest. His church supports ministries for youth, women, health, singles, and couples and named America’s Best Preacher by Time Magazine.
R&B singer Kelly Rowland presents, ten time Grammy winner, Chaka Khan, has a career that spans 4 decades and 6 continents. Lead singer for Rufus, Chaka earned her 1st Grammy award, and hit single with “Tell Me Something Good.” Kahn launched a successful solo career with ‘I’m Every Woman’, and her single ‘I Feel For You’, was the first R&B single to feature a rap verse. Chaka Khan is the 2013 recipient of the Musical Arts Award.
3-Time WNBA MVP and Seven-Time All Star and a four-time Olympic gold medalist, Lisa Leslie receives the Athletics Award. A 6'5" former center for the Los Angeles Sparks, Leslie helped the Sparks make the playoffs five consecutive seasons, win a WNBA title in 2001, and was the first player to dunk in a WNBA game in July of 2002. The 2013 Athletics Awards is presented by Actor Anthony Anderson.
Watch the 2013 Honors broadcast on BET Monday February 11th at 9PM EST.
