The BET Awards are always a highlight, a vibrant celebration of Black excellence in music, television, and film. For many of us, tuning in live is part of the tradition, but with so many ways to watch content these days, you might be wondering, "What's the best way to stream the BET Awards this year?"
Well, the good news is, it's pretty straightforward, and you've got options. Traditionally, the BET Awards air live on the BET network itself, usually on a Sunday evening in late June or early July. The show kicks off at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (that's 5:00 PM Pacific), and it's a solid three-hour affair. While you could always catch it on a cable TV, streaming has really become the go-to for flexibility.
Since BET is owned by Paramount Global, the primary streaming avenues are naturally tied to services that carry the BET channel. So, where exactly can you tune in?
Your Top Streaming Choices:
- BET+ App: If you're already a subscriber to BET+, you'll likely find the awards streaming live right there, especially if you have a TV provider login to authenticate.
- Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: This tier of Paramount+ is a great all-rounder. It includes live access to BET, alongside other popular networks like MTV and Comedy Central.
- Live TV Streaming Services: This is where many people find their sweet spot. Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV (specifically the Blue package), FuboTV, and DIRECTV STREAM all include BET in their standard channel lineups. So, if you're already subscribed to one of these for your general TV watching, you're probably all set.
- BET.com: On the night of the awards, the official BET website often provides a live stream. Just a heads-up, you'll usually need to log in with your cable or streaming provider credentials to access it.
- Mobile Apps: For those who like to watch on the go, the BET app (available for both iOS and Android) allows authenticated users to stream live. It's super convenient.
A Quick Note for International Viewers:
If you're outside the U.S., you might run into geo-restrictions. In these cases, using a reputable VPN set to a U.S. server can often help bypass these blocks. Just remember to do this in line with local laws and the terms of service for the streaming platform you choose.
Getting Ready to Watch:
It’s always a good idea to confirm the exact date and time on the official BET website or their social media channels. Once you've picked your platform – whether it's BET+, Paramount+, or a live TV service – make sure your device (smart TV, phone, tablet) is ready. If you're using the BET app or website, have your provider login handy. And, as a pro tip, try to start the stream about 15-20 minutes before the show begins. This gives you a buffer to sort out any potential buffering or login hiccups. Then, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
