The Ultimate Icon Award was created in 2015 and presented in the ceremony. At the awards ceremony a mini-documentary is shown covering the honorees' life.
The BET Lifetime Achievement, Humanitarian and Ultimate Icon Award recipients, along with the nominees for other categories are announced in a press conference. International Viewers' Choice Award (2015–17).Best International Act: Africa (2011–17).Best New International Act (2019–present).Best International Act (2010, 2018–present).Video Director of the Year (2008–present).Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award (2001–present) Best Male Hip-Hop Artist (2001–present).Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award (2001–present).The ceremony was moved to the Microsoft Theater at L.A. From 2006 to 2012, the ceremonies were held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. From 2002 to 2005, the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood hosted the awards. The inaugural ceremony in 2001 was held at the Paris Las Vegas resort on the Las Vegas Strip. In 2007, Society Awards, the New York firm who manufactures the award, enhanced the quality of the trophy design using plated steel and black crystal. Outkast won the first award trophy during the first ceremony in 2001. The Award Trophy, inspired by three words - aspire, ascend, achieve, was designed by artist/sculptor Carlos 'Mare139' Rodriguez.
