Anthony Anderson has been tapped as the host of the “Soul Train Awards’
A veteran host of television’s biggest celebrations of Black culture, Anderson emceed the BET Awards in 2015 and 2016. He also hosted and led the NAACP Image Awards for eight consecutive years with his signature humor and commanding charisma. Most recently, he hosted the 75th Annual Emmy Awards.
Anderson shared his excitement about hosting the awards show in a statement.
“I’m thrilled to be back with BET and especially excited to host SOUL TRAIN AWARDS in Chicago, where the Soul Train legacy began,” said Anderson. “Soul Train is more than a television show or an awards franchise; it’s a piece of our cultural history. Don Cornelius created a platform that gave Black artists a place to shine, and generations later, that spirit is still alive. I’m looking forward to celebrating the legends, the artists shaping R&B and soul today, and bringing a whole lot of fun to the night.”
Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming and Music Strategy for BET, also released a statement.
“Anthony brings an incredible combination of comedic instinct, musical knowledge and genuine love for this culture,” Orlando said. “His longstanding relationship with BET, coupled with his experience hosting some of television’s biggest award shows, makes him a natural fit for this new chapter of SOUL TRAIN AWARDS.”
“Anthony Anderson is an exceptional entertainer with a genuine connection to BET and the culture that SOUL TRAIN represents,” said Louis Carr, President of BET. He understands the legacy, the music, and the importance of creating a moment that brings people together. As we return SOUL TRAIN AWARDS to Chicago, the birthplace of the franchise, we’re excited to have Anthony at the center of this celebration,
The SOUL TRAIN AWARDS 2026 airs on Friday, November 27 at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS.