During the electrifying 2025 BET Awards held on June 9, Snoop Dogg was honored with the prestigious Ultimate Icon Award. Standing proudly alongside his wife, Shante Broadus, and Dr. Dre, he gazed over a sea of renowned names in R&B and hip-hop. This moment not only celebrated his illustrious career but also solidified his legacy in the music industry as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
As the ceremony neared its conclusion, Dr. Dre initiated a heartfelt tribute to Snoop, delivering a speech that both acknowledged his immense contributions to the genre and playfully teased him. He affectionately referred to Snoop as “one of the most prolific artists in hip-hop,” while humorously noting, “Every time I turn on the TV, he’s trying to sell something,” eliciting laughter from Snoop and the audience. This blend of admiration and camaraderie highlighted their long-standing friendship and collaboration.
When Snoop took the stage to accept his award, he playfully jabbed back at Dre, thanking him for the opportunity to “ghostwrite for you on ‘Deep Cover’ and ‘Nuthin’ But a G Thang’”—a nod to their early yet groundbreaking collaborations that helped shape the sound of West Coast hip-hop. This moment not only showcased their mutual respect but also reminded fans of their rich history in the music world.
Much of Snoop’s acceptance speech took on a more serious and reflective tone. He expressed gratitude towards his teachers, the “MCs I battled along the way,” and extended his appreciation to his family at Death Row Records, along with his former collaborators Warren G and the late Nate Dogg. He emphasized the importance of his children and 10 grandchildren, referring to them as “my greatest inspiration,” and recognized his “beautiful wife” for her unwavering support throughout his journey.
“This is why I’m so rock solid,” Snoop declared, alluding to his wife, Shante. “This is why I’m able to deal with all the things I’m able to deal with—when I’ve got God in my life and I’ve got a queen in my life. She’s always been my everything.” His heartfelt words underscored the significance of love and faith in navigating the challenges of fame and success.
Before transitioning into an electrifying performance of his timeless hits, Snoop shared his personal interpretation of what it means to be an icon. “The work speaks for you,” he articulated to the audience gathered at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. “Hip-hop, it gave me a voice. It gave me a purpose. It gave me a way out and a way in… Being an icon, it ain’t about fame. It’s about legacy. It’s about what you build, what you leave behind, and who you lift up along the way.” His words resonated deeply, emphasizing the responsibilities that come with success.
On that memorable night, Snoop was one of four distinguished artists to receive the Ultimate Icon Award. Alongside him, Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, and Kirk Franklin were also celebrated for their significant contributions to the music industry. Snoop’s heartfelt shoutouts during his speech created an emotional atmosphere throughout the four-hour ceremony, making it a truly unforgettable event.
Following a brief commercial break, Snoop solidified his status as an Ultimate Icon by delivering a dynamic medley of his greatest hits, which included “Unsung Heroes,” the Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” and “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang.” He was joined on stage by familiar faces, including his talented backup dancers and an accompanying orchestra. Special guests like Charlie Wilson helped perform The Gap Band’s classic “Outstanding,” while Warren G and Kurupt contributed to closing out the medley with “Ain’t No Fun (If the Homies Can’t Have None).”
The 2025 BET Awards, hosted by the dynamic Kevin Hart, recognized some of the most significant achievements in pop culture over the past year. Kendrick Lamar emerged as the top nominee, earning an impressive 10 nods and ultimately winning Album of the Year for his acclaimed project, GNX, along with four other prestigious awards.
The presentation of the Ultimate Icon Award to Snoop Dogg comes after over three decades of hard work and dedication in the hip-hop industry. Throughout his career, he has achieved 45 entries on the Hot 100 chart and garnered three No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200. Moreover, Snoop has successfully transitioned into a media personality and is now the proud owner of Death Row Records, a label he acquired in 2022, further solidifying his legacy in the music world.
Snoop’s latest album, Iz It a Crime?, was released on May 15, showcasing his continual evolution as an artist and his unwavering presence in the music scene.
