Lizzo experienced an emotional full-circle moment after meeting one of her biggest musical inspirations backstage at the 2026 BET Awards.
The Grammy-winning singer fought back tears after meeting Lauryn Hill following a star-studded tribute honoring the legendary artist. Hill received the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award during the ceremony, which celebrated her decades-long influence on hip-hop, R&B and popular culture.
Earlier in the evening, Lizzo joined Rapsody in performing Hill’s 1998 hit “Doo Wop (That Thing).” The performance was part of a nearly 20-minute tribute featuring SZA, Doja Cat, Nas, Queen Latifah, Common, Tems, Tierra Whack and several others. Hill later surprised the audience by taking the stage herself to perform “Ex-Factor” and “Everything Is Everything.”
Following the ceremony, Lizzo shared an emotional video documenting her backstage encounter with Hill.
“I just met my hero. I don’t have words,” Lizzo said while wiping away tears. “Makes you emotional talking. I’m going to go wipe my face. That is my hero. Y’all don’t understand. I’m so grateful.”
Advice From an Icon
Lizzo later revealed that the meeting became even more meaningful because Hill offered her personal encouragement.
According to the singer, Hill told her, “Never stop speaking the truth.”
Lizzo said those words left a lasting impression.
“She lit a fire under me,” Lizzo said. “I needed to hear that.”
The moment carried special significance given Lizzo’s longstanding admiration for Hill. Before taking the BET Awards stage, Lizzo admitted she felt nervous about performing in front of the woman whose music helped shape her artistry.
Hill’s influence stretches across generations of artists. Her groundbreaking solo debut, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, remains one of the defining albums in modern music. The project earned multiple Grammy Awards and continues to inspire musicians more than two decades after its release.
A Night Celebrating Legacy
The 2026 BET Awards centered on honoring artists whose impact extends beyond chart success. Hill’s tribute featured reinterpretations of songs from her solo catalog and work with the Fugees. Family members also participated in the celebration before Hill accepted the night’s highest honor.
During her acceptance speech, Hill reflected on the purpose behind her career and the responsibility she feels toward her audience.
“I do this because I love y’all,” Hill said. “I do this because I want you to have everything that I experienced.”
She continued by encouraging artists and fans to embrace their individuality and use their talents to uplift others.
Hill said music became her way to pour love into people after realizing not everyone experiences the same support growing up.
The emotional exchange quickly resonated with fans online, who praised the authenticity of Lizzo’s reaction. Many also celebrated seeing one generation of influential artists acknowledge another in such a heartfelt way.