BET Awards 2026: Janet Jackson Surprise Arrival Makes Teyana Taylor Cry

Teyana Taylor needs one tissue after another.

As the One Battle After Another actress prepared to accept the inaugural Icon of the Year award at the 2026 BET Awards—hosted by Druski at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles June 28—she was brought to tears when learning that Janet Jackson made a surprise appearance to present the trophy.

Indeed, as the five-time Grammy winner strode onto the stage, Teyana jumped up in shock while tears streamed down her face before the pair held hands before Janet’s introduction.

“What a year it’s been for you,” Janet began. “It seems like only yesterday our rose from Harlem grew out of the concrete and blossomed into our Icon of the Year. I’ve enjoyed watching you defy expectations, rewrite the rules, and lead with an unstoppable work ethic.”

And as the Oscar nominee audibly sobbed from the crowd, the 60-year-old reminded Teyana that she’s “a testament to the greatest superhero the world will ever know: The Black woman.”