Teyana Taylor: Singer, Actress, and 2026 BET Icon of the Year

Teyana Taylor is one of the most versatile entertainers in the industry today. Known as a singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, choreographer, director, and fashion icon, she has built a career that spans music, film, television, and creative direction. In 2026, she is once again making headlines after being honored with the Icon of the Year Award at the BET Awards, recognizing her influence on music, fashion, and popular culture.

US actress Teyana Taylor (R) and US rapper Remy Ma ride atop an open-top bus during a championship ticker-tape parade celebrating the Knicks' NBA Finals victory in New York City on June 18, 2026. (Photo by DAVID DEE DELGADO / AFP via Getty Images)

Born on December 10, 1990, in Harlem, New York, Taylor first gained attention as a teenager after signing with Pharrell Williams' Star Trak Entertainment. She later released her debut album VII in 2014, followed by K.T.S.E. in 2018 and The Album in 2020. Some of her best-known songs include "Gonna Love Me," "Issues/Hold On," "Rose in Harlem," and "Wake Up Love." Her unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop has earned millions of fans worldwide.

Beyond music, Taylor has become one of Hollywood's fastest-rising stars. She has appeared in several films and television projects, earning praise for her acting performances. She is also an award-winning music video director and choreographer, having worked with major artists while developing a reputation for her creative storytelling and visual style.

The biggest reason Teyana Taylor is trending today is her emotional moment at the 2026 BET Awards. Presented with the Icon of the Year Award by Janet Jackson, Taylor thanked her supporters and reflected on her 20-year journey in the entertainment industry. During her acceptance speech, she spoke about the hard work behind her success and dedicated the honor to her daughters, saying she hoped they would always see her as "home." Her heartfelt speech quickly went viral across social media.

Taylor also turned heads on the red carpet, wearing a dramatic burgundy haute couture gown designed by Stéphane Rolland. Her bold fashion choice became one of the most talked-about celebrity looks of the evening, adding to the excitement surrounding her appearance.

From chart-topping music and acclaimed acting to directing and fashion, Teyana Taylor continues to prove why she is one of the entertainment industry's most influential creative talents. With her latest BET honor, she has added another major achievement to an already remarkable career, and fans are eager to see what she does next.