Teyana Taylor was visibly moved to tears as she accepted the ‘Icon Of The Year’ honor at the 2026 BET Awards, being presented the trophy by Janet Jackson. A devoted Janet admirer, she could hardly believe that her idol would be the one standing there handing her the award. Wearing a backless cobalt blue gown, she dashed onto the stage to embrace Janet, who looked radiant in a silky du-ray beneath her fedora and a T-shirt bearing the word 2pac. “Oh my God. B*tch, I’m gagging,” Teyana exclaimed, stunned by the moment.
During Janet’s introduction, she praised Teyana for being an innovator and a true trendsetter. And when Teyana finally had her moment, she returned the love with equal warmth. “Everyone who knows me knows how I feel about you, the fact that you even took the time to be here to celebrate with me, this is crazy. I love you so much. You don’t even understand,” she said.
In her acceptance speech, Teyana also gave thanks to God, her momager, and her daughters. She urged women to pay it forward while also recognizing herself for the many roles she plays.
“I’m not accepting what I’ve earned with arrogance; I’m accepting what I’ve earned with gratitude. And this year alone, I continue to give the world the artist, actress, director, choreographer, creative director, stylist, designer, writer, producer and chef!” shares the Golden Globe winner.
Carrying the joke over from award season, she addressed her daughters, Junie and Rue. “Mommy loves you so, so much. I love you, and you better be watching me and off them goddamn phones, per usual.”
Congrats to Teyana Taylor for all her success this year.
