Jaafar Jackson and Nia Long took to the stage at the 2026 BET Awards to present the first award of the evening, receiving a warm round of applause as they represented the cast of the blockbuster Michael biopic.
Before announcing the winner for Best Male R&B / Pop Artist, the two stars took a moment to thank audiences for their overwhelming support of the film, which has become one of the biggest box office successes of the year.
“We’re so grateful for the love you all showed to our movie,” Jaafar Jackson told the audience at the Peacock Theater. “You guys have the theaters packed. We’re truly so humbled. Your support means the world to the Jackson family.”
Nia Long, who portrays Katherine Jackson in the film, followed with a heartfelt tribute to both the Jackson family and her co-star.
“Portraying Katherine Jackson reminded me that grace is quiet and still, and tonight we honor that,” Long said. “Jaafar, it was an honor watching you transform into your uncle right before our eyes.”
The pair then presented the Best Male R&B / Pop Artist award, which was won by Leon Thomas.
Jaafar wasn’t the only member of the Jackson family to take the BET Awards stage. Janet Jackson also made a memorable appearance, presenting the prestigious Icon of the Year Award to singer, actress and choreographer Teyana Taylor. Janet paid tribute to Taylor’s remarkable contributions to music, film, fashion and culture, in one of the evening’s most emotional moments.
With Michael continuing its phenomenal run in theaters, the BET Awards provided another opportunity for the film’s stars and the Jackson family, to thank audiences for embracing the story of the King of Pop.
