Despite intensifying protests across Los Angeles, the 2025 BET Awards are moving forward as scheduled. The annual celebration of Black excellence in music, entertainment, and culture will be broadcast live on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET/PT from the Peacock Theater in downtown L.A.

In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, BET confirmed the show will go on, emphasizing their dedication to safety amid citywide unrest:

“BET remains committed to the safety of our guests and staff. We are working closely with LAPD and monitoring the situation. The 2025 BET Awards will take place Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/PT as scheduled.”

This year’s show, hosted by Kevin Hart, will mark the 25th anniversary of the prestigious awards ceremony. Set to perform are Lil Wayne, Playboi Carti, Leon Thomas, Keyshia Cole, and Glorilla, making for a dynamic night of entertainment despite external tensions.

Chaos in Los Angeles

The announcement comes as thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets in protest of recent immigration raids and mass arrests by federal authorities. The protests escalated over the weekend with self-driving vehicles set ablaze and law enforcement deploying tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades in an attempt to disperse crowds.

According to CBS News, dozens of arrests were made during the weekend’s clashes. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell described the situation as volatile but said the department is prepared to ensure public safety during upcoming events.

Federal Tension Grows

Adding fuel to the fire, former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to call for military intervention, posting:

“Looking really bad in L.A. BRING IN THE TROOPS!!!”

In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom pushed back with legal action, accusing Trump of overreach:

“Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire. Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral,” Newsom wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “California will be taking him to court.”

When asked about further troop deployments, Trump told reporters at the White House, “We’ll see what happens,” while claiming, “I think we have it very well under control.”

BET Awards Push Forward

While tensions remain high in the city, the BET Awards aims to offer a moment of celebration and unity. With a powerful lineup and milestone anniversary, the 2025 ceremony is poised to be a memorable night—serving both as entertainment and a reflection of resilience during turbulent times.