Fans have been left with more questions than answers after news broke about the indefinite suspension of the Soul Train and BET Hip-Hop Awards.
BET CEO Scott Mills confirmed the decision without providing any clear explanation or indicating when they will return. In a statement, Mills said, “So for BET linear, we have suspended the Soul Train and Hip Hop award shows. But we have a team that’s actively thinking about where those award shows might best live as the media climate continues to evolve.” He added, “They aren’t gone. And we also still have the NAACP Image Awards and the Stellar Awards.”
The Soul Train Awards and the BET Hip-Hop Awards have become two of the most prominent events that honor Black music. The Soul Train Awards debuted in 1987, and it extended the legacy that the late Don Cornelius started with the legendary television show, Soul Train. The awards became a prominent stage for honoring soul and R&B artists.
The BET Hip-Hop Awards debuted in 2006, putting the spotlight on emerging hip-hop artists as well as acknowledging the legacy of the legends. The show was also known for its one-of-a-kind cyphers and outstanding performances.
The decision to no longer move forward with both award shows comes as the company is currently undergoing a transition period. Earlier this year, the network was sold by Paramount Global to a group of Black-led investors with the expectation to renew the focus on Black entertainment.