Mariah Carey was all smiles as she accepted her first-ever BET Award on Monday night. The pop diva took home the Ultimate Icon Award at the 2025 BET Awards show.
Mariah Carey accepting the Ultimate Icon Award at the #BETAwards2025. pic.twitter.com/pPC6OQjMDd
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) June 10, 2025
In her acceptance speech, Carey celebrated her “iconicness.” She said, “It took me a while, but I finally realized life is far too short to live for anyone else’s approval.
So I decided to own who I am—my extra-ness, my fabulousness, my success, and yes, my iconicness.”
Mariah Carey teases the music video for “Type Dangerous,” out Friday. pic.twitter.com/pxY65DIm8G
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) June 9, 2025
Carey encouraged people to be true to themselves. “Love and respect yourself. Be a diva, be a boss, be anything you wanna be.
This was a performance. I hope they were taking notes in the audience!! #BETAwards2025
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) June 10, 2025
But be iconic while you’re doing it,” she added.
Carey wins Ultimate Icon Award
The singer also gave a dazzling performance at the event.
She sang her new single “Type Dangerous” and her 2005 hit “It’s Like That.” Carey sparkled on stage in a metallic gold minidress. She accessorized with big hoop earrings and lots of bracelets. It was an emotional night for many.
Fellow honoree Kirk Franklin gave a moving speech about getting a second chance at life after a serious stroke. His words touched the audience deeply. Carey’s performance and heartfelt speech were big highlights of the night.
They showed once again why she is a true icon in the music world.
