With six nominations, Beyonce heads the field for the 2007 BET Awards. The nominations were announced today (May 16) by rappers T.I. and 50 Cent, R&B newcomer Robin Thicke and “Everybody Loves Chris” cast member Tichina Arnold during a press conference at Hollywood’s Renaissance Hotel. This year’s ceremony will be televised live June 26 from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
Propelled by the success of her second album, “B-Day,” and the award-winning film “Dreamgirls,” Beyonce is up for best female R&B artist, best collaboration (with Jay-Z on both “Deja Vu” and “Upgrade U”), video of the year (for “Irrreplaceable” and her duet with Shakira on “Beautiful Liar”) and the viewer’s choice award.
Earning three nods each are Jennifer Hudson, who won an Academy Award for her “Dreamgirls” role, Ciara, Akon and Gnarls Barkley. Among those netting two nominations are first-time nominee Thicke, the late Gerald Levert, Ludacris, Diddy, Ne-Yo and Mary J. Blige.
In addition to saluting the achievements of artists, actors and athletes in 14 categories, the BET Awards will also present two special trophies. This year’s lifetime achievement award will go to Diana Ross, while actor Don Cheadle will be presented with BET’s humanitarian award.
For the first time in the show’s seven-year history, fans will vote on which song they want to hear by one of the show’s featured performers. Inaugurating this interactive element will be 50 Cent, whose “Curtis” album hits stores on the same day as the telecast. After the rapper’s videos for “Straight to the Bank” and “Amusement Park” debut tomorrow (May 17) on BET’s “106 & Park,” viewers can begin to cast their votes. T.I. will also perform on the show, with additional acts to be announced in the coming weeks. Returning as host for the third time is comedienne/actress Mo’Nique.
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