American singer and actress Lauryn Hill is honoured with the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award at the 2026 BET Awards in Los Angeles. Multiple outlets report that BET presents the new recognition, marking the first time the award is given. ABC Australia and The Independent both describe the ceremony context and the award’s status as the inaugural edition. The Independent adds that Hill surprises fans with a rare live performance during the show. Times of India reports details of the broader program, including emotional performances by other artists and Hill’s acceptance speech focused on her community, alongside a surprise performance of her song “Ex-Factor.” The same outlet says Hill’s appearance and remarks are followed by an onstage moment that includes the unexpected rendition, contributing to a high-profile celebration of her career. Across sources, the central agreement is that Hill receives the first Living Legend Icon Award at the BET Awards, with additional coverage highlighting her speech and an unplanned musical performance during the broadcast.