Kirk Franklin thanks family, fans and his Aunt Gertrude, who adopted him as a little boy, in moving 2025 BET Awards speech
Kirk Franklin's "Big Badass" Speech at the 2025 BET AwardsThe 2025 BET Awards were a week of massive excitement and celebration. Kirk Franklin, known for his acting skills as Mariah Carey, was among the select few to be honored as part of his "Big Badass" series. In his debut speech, he expressed his gratitude toward family, fans, and his Aunt Gertrude, who had adopted him as a little boy during his early years. His speech was filled with emotion and inspiration, celebrating his journey from acting to music and the incredible impact he made on the BET Awards 2025.
What It Was Like Performing at the 2025 BET Awards
At the 2025 BET Awards, Kirk Franklin shared a heartfelt speech during the awards ceremony. He expressed his deep appreciation for his family, friends, and especially his Aunt Gertrude, who had been a role model from her childhood through to his rise as an actor. His voice was warm and intimate, resonating with both his personal experiences and the entertainment industry.
The Ultimate Icon Award
As one of the show's top 10 award winners in 2025, Kirk Franklin was honored with the Ultimate Icon Award. This prestigious award is given to the winner of a solo project or song that has stood out as a significant contribution to the series. In his speech, he shared that Mariah Carey was recognized for her incredible talent with her new single "Stay True," which she will be performing at the BET Awards later this year.
Jamie Foxx and Snoop Dogg
Jamie Foxx and Snoop Dogg also made their mark in 2025. Jamie Foxx was awarded the Best New Artist award for his solo project, *Picks*, a highly praised work that showcased his versatility as an actor and singer. On the other hand, Snoop Dogg was selected for the Best Original Musician award due to his outstanding role in the song *"Mama, Mama 23*" during his acting career.
Aunt Gertrude's Legacy
But it wasn't just Kirk Franklin who made a mark on the awards. His Aunt Gertrude, who had been adopted by him as a little boy, left an indelible mark on his life and career. Gertrude was a trusted confidante, a great teacher, and a source of comfort to him throughout his difficult years as an actor.
Why the Honors Were Given
Kirk Franklin's speech at the BET Awards was praised for how he conveyed gratitude toward family, friends, and his Aunt Gertrude. He also highlighted the significance of his solo projects and his impact on the entertainment industry. The judges recognized his performance not only for its technical excellence but also for its emotional depth, making it a standout effort in 2025.
Conclusion
As he wrapped up his speech with a heartfelt message, Kirk Franklin celebrated his journey from acting to music and his immense impact on the BET Awards 2025. His story was not just about acting or music but also about the power of family, support, and inspiring oneself to embrace life's many challenges.
Kirk Franklin's "Big Badass" series continues to be a shining light in the entertainment industry, reminding us that even the most dedicated performers can find their way into the hearts of fans. This speech is just one more reminder of his incredible journey and the incredible work he has done for everyone involved.
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