Amanda Seales to host BET Awards

Atlanta stars are among performers.

Amanda Seales said “so long” to “The Real” and “hello” to BET.

The comedian-actress is hosting the 20th annual BET Awards this summer, which will simulcast across Viacom- CBS networks including BET and BET HER, the network announced Monday. Additionally, the ceremony will make its national broadcast debut on CBS when it airs Sunday, June 28 at 8 p.m.

“It’s gonna be a beautiful, funny, blackidy black time and I’m honored to celebrate with y’all,” Seales tweeted in part.

While Seales hosts the main show, actors Terrence J and Erica Ash will host the first interactive pre-show, where celebrities and special guests will be featured.

“BET was created to stand at the forefront of black cul- ture. We have made strides over the past two decades to create a space where black creativity, culture, and art have the opportunity to get the celebration it deserves in a world where it is system- atically muted,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strat- egy at BET in a press release.

“This year we’re looking forward to continuing the tradition of providing fans with those special, not to be missed moments of enrichment, entertainment, empowerment and also using our platform to create change for our community.”

BET has also announced the first group of performers for the show. Among them are Atlanta stars Chloe x Halle, Summer Walker and Usher. Columbus native Wayne Brady will also take the stage.

The network previously announced that the 20thanniversary show will be virtual and use an “array of innovative techniques and artistgenerated content.”