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Home • News

BET Honors 2009

BET Honors
By Essence · Updated October 29, 2020
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01
Sheer Elegance

Actress Gabrielle Union hosted the second annual BET Honors and, as always, was feminine chic.

BET Honors 2009
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02
All Hail the Queen

Queen Latifah was stunning and served as a presenter.

BET Honors 2009
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03
Living Large

Tyler Perry was regal in a purple tux. The filmmaker was honored for his accomplishments and successes in media.

BET Honors 2009
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04
Crimson Tide

Honored for her achievements as an award-winning entertainer, Mary J. Blige’s fiery dress matched her spirit.

BET Honors 2009
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05
Lady in Charge

Host Gabrielle Union entertains the audience before announcing the next presenter.

BET Honors 2009
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06
Queen of the Night

A surprise visit from Whitney Houston was welcomed by a thunderous round of applause.

BET Honors 2009
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07
Gift of Song

Queen Latifah serenades the crowd with her rendition of “Wishing on a Star.”

BET Honors 2009
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08
Get Lifted

Yolanda Adams was on hand for a tribute to Tyler Perry, letting him know his life and accomplishments are an inspiration to us all.

BET Honors 2009
09
Pride & Glory

Restaurateur B. Smith lifts her award for entrepreneurship with pride during the show.

BET Honors 2009
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10
Living Legend

Artistic director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Judith Jamison was honored by Angela Bassett for her contributions to education and the world of dance.

BET Honors 2009
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11
Proud Mary

Honoree Mary J. Blige accepted her award and thanked her fans for their continued support.

BET Honors 2009
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12
For You I Will

In a special tribute to Mary J. Blige, R&B songstress Monica brought the house down with a performance of “Not Gon’ Cry.”

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
13
Sister Friend

Angela Bassett chats with the incomparable Judith Jamison, artistic director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater after presenting her with an award for her contributions to education and dance.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
14
Dynamic Duo

Host Gabrielle Union and presenter Terrence Howard enjoy the festivities.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
15
Music’s Finest

Sean “Diddy” Combs, Queen Latifah and Mary J. Blige are all smiles at the star-studded event.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
16
Mr. Hollywood

Tyler Perry accepts his award from Whitney Houston and expresses his gratitude.

BET Honors 2009
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17
Lift Every Voice

Queen Latifah’s soulful performance was accompanied by the legendary Stevie Wonder.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
18
The Gent

Crooner Ne-Yo sings “Miss Independent” to B. Smith, who was honored with an award for her entrepreneurship.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
19
In Her Honor

Soul man Anthony Hamilton serenades honoree Judith Jamison who is touched by his heartwarming performance.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta
20
Magic Man

Earvin “Magic” Johnson was honored with the Corporate Citizen Award for the many jobs he’s helped create in the African-American community through his business ventures.

BET Honors 2009
Frank Micelotta