Lauryn Hill was honored with the Living Legend Icon Award at the 2026 BET Awards, accompanied by a star-studded tribute performance featuring artists such as Doechii, Nas, Doja Cat, SZA, Common, and Queen Latifah.

Ice Cube introduced Hill at the event, praising her as “one of the greatest voices in Black music history” and highlighting her complex artistry.

The tribute began with a heartfelt performance by the War & Treaty, who sang “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” evoking memories of Hill’s role in “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.”

This was followed by performances of several of Hill’s iconic songs, including “Ready or Not” by SZA and Doechii, “Fu-Gee-La” by Tierra Whack and Tems, and “Doo Wop (That Thing)” performed by Lizzo alongside Rapsody.

Hill’s children also participated in the tribute, with Zion and Selah Marley performing songs that referenced Hill’s own work, underscoring the personal significance of the event.

After a brief commercial intermission, Lauryn Hill took to the stage to perform “Ex-Factor,” revealing she wasn’t originally scheduled to perform but stepped in when another artist dropped out.

In her acceptance speech, Hill emphasized her commitment to representing the dignity of the Black community and the importance of individuality, stating, “All of our differences, all of our uniqueness, that’s the beauty.”

Other recipients of special awards at the BET Awards included Teyana Taylor, who received the Icon of the Year award from Janet Jackson.