Mariah Carey Receives Ultimate Icon Award at 2025 BET Awards

Can you believe it? The Queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey, finally bagged her very first BET Award! And not just any award — she received the Ultimate Icon Award at the 2025 BET Awards. This moment was not only a huge milestone for Mariah but also a sparkling celebration of her legendary career, style, and influence. Let’s dive into all the glam, music, and magic from this unforgettable night.

A Long-Awaited Honor for a True Icon

Mariah Carey has been a music powerhouse for decades, known for her incredible vocal range, timeless hits, and diva attitude. Yet, surprisingly, this was her first-ever BET Award win. And what a way to start — with the Ultimate Icon Award! The ceremony took place on June 9, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, hosted by comedian Kevin Hart.

Mariah shared the stage with other legendary recipients like Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin, all honored for their decades of groundbreaking work in music, entertainment, and community impact. The award celebrates not just talent but also influence and advocacy — areas where Mariah shines brightly.

A Speech Full of Heart and Diva Energy

When Mariah took the stage to accept her award, she was full of charm and gratitude. She joked, “If you’re gonna get one, might as well start with the Ultimate Icon Award.” That’s classic Mariah — confident with a touch of humor.

She reflected on her journey, saying her life and career have been “quite the adventure.” Mariah admitted it took her some time to realize that life is too short to live for others’ approval. She encouraged everyone watching to “be a diva, be a boss, be anything you wanna be. But be iconic while you’re doing it.” It was a powerful message wrapped in her signature glam and grace.

Mariah also gave a big shoutout to her fans, affectionately called the “Lambily.” She thanked them for their love and loyalty, saying their support is the greatest gift she could ever receive.

A Show-Stopping Performance

Before her award acceptance, Mariah lit up the stage with a dazzling performance of her new single, “Type Dangerous,” from her upcoming 16th studio album. The performance was disco-inspired and full of energy, blending her classic diva style with a fresh, modern vibe.

Mariah made a grand entrance, skipping the red carpet but definitely not the spotlight. She wore a shimmering metallic gold mini dress paired with matching heels and eye-catching jewelry — think big hoop earrings and layered bracelets that sparkled under the stage lights. Her hair was sleek and straight, a nod to her ’90s pop-princess roots but with a contemporary twist.

She also performed a crowd favorite, “It’s Like That,” from 2005, reminding everyone why she’s still the queen of pop and R&B.

Fashion Moment of the Night

Mariah’s fashion at the BET Awards was nothing short of iconic. Although she skipped the red carpet, she made sure all eyes were on her once she hit the stage. The metallic gold mini dress was a perfect choice — glamorous yet playful, showing off her timeless beauty and confidence.

Her accessories were carefully chosen to complement the look, with sparkling hoops and bracelets adding just the right amount of shine. The slick hairstyle completed the look, making her look effortlessly chic and ready to own the night.

Mariah’s style this year has been all about fresh starts and bold statements. Earlier in 2025, she celebrated her 56th birthday in a sheer sequin dress, showing off her curves and playful spirit on TikTok. She’s clearly embracing her iconic status with style and fun.

The Ultimate Icon Award: What It Means

The Ultimate Icon Award at the BET Awards is a big deal. It honors artists who have made lasting contributions to music, culture, and society. Mariah Carey’s influence is undeniable — from her record-breaking hits to her impact on pop and R&B music, and even her role in holiday traditions worldwide with “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

Busta Rhymes introduced Mariah with a heartfelt tribute, calling her a cultural icon and praising her as the blueprint for hip-hop and pop collaborations before it was even cool. He highlighted her versatility — from ballads to bops, and even the start of the Christmas season, thanks to her timeless songs.

This award marks a new chapter for Mariah, recognizing her legacy and inspiring future generations to be bold, authentic, and iconic.

More Star Power at the 2025 BET Awards

Mariah wasn’t the only star shining that night. Jamie Foxx, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg also received the Ultimate Icon Award, celebrating their own incredible careers and contributions.

Kendrick Lamar led the nominations with 10 nods, alongside other big names like Doechii, Drake, Future, GloRilla, Metro Boomin, SZA, and The Weeknd. The event was a night full of music, celebration, and respect for artists who have shaped the industry.

Why This Moment Matters

Mariah Carey receiving the Ultimate Icon Award at the 2025 BET Awards is more than just a trophy — it’s a recognition of her enduring influence and resilience in an ever-changing music world. It’s also a reminder that true icons are timeless, and their impact goes beyond awards and charts.

For fans and newcomers alike, this moment encourages embracing your unique self, chasing your dreams, and shining unapologetically. Mariah’s message to “be a diva, be a boss” is a call to own your power and live life on your own terms.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 BET Awards gave us a night to remember, especially with Mariah Carey’s historic win. From her heartfelt speech to her glamorous performance and unforgettable style, Mariah proved once again why she’s a true icon.

If you’re a fan of music, fashion, or just love a good diva moment, Mariah’s Ultimate Icon Award night is a story worth celebrating. Here’s to more music, more style, and more iconic moments from the Queen of Christmas!

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