BET Names Anthony Anderson Host of Soul Train Awards 2026

In a move that highlights the ongoing reverence for Black musical heritage, BET has confirmed that Anthony Anderson will serve as the host for the 2026 Soul Train Awards. Scheduled to air on November 27 at 8 PM ET/PT across BET and CBS, this event marks a significant revival of the Soul Train brand, returning to its roots in Chicago.

Anderson, a multifaceted entertainer with a rich history of hosting major televised celebrations, brings a combination of comedic flair and cultural insight to the role. His previous hosting stints include the BET Awards in 2015 and 2016, as well as an eight-year tenure leading the NAACP Image Awards. Additionally, he has been recognized with multiple Emmy nominations and Golden Globe nods for his acting work, further cementing his prominence in the entertainment industry.

The choice of Anderson as host is emblematic of BET’s commitment to honoring the legacy of Soul Train while bridging generations. The franchise, which began in 1971 under the visionary guidance of Don Cornelius, was seminal in showcasing Black artists across genres such as R&B, soul, hip-hop, and beyond. Its influence extended not only through music but also through cultural phenomena like the Soul Train dance line, which has become a lasting symbol of Black dance innovation.

This upcoming awards show is more than a spectacle; it is positioned as a cultural homecoming. Returning to Chicago—the birthplace of the original Soul Train program—BET aims to celebrate the trailblazers who shaped the sound of Black music and those who continue to evolve it today. The event promises a blend of performances, tributes, and honors that reflect the depth and breadth of the genre’s impact.

BET’s stewardship of the Soul Train brand since acquiring it in 2016 has focused on both preservation and reinvention. This award show represents a strategic effort to reinvigorate an iconic franchise by aligning it with contemporary artists and audiences while maintaining the spirit that Don Cornelius instilled decades ago.

The network’s broader mission to amplify authentic Black stories and cultural experiences underpins this revival. BET’s expansive portfolio, including BET Her, VH1, and several dedicated FAST channels, continues to provide platforms for diverse expressions of Black creativity and excellence.

Production of the 2026 Soul Train Awards involves Jesse Collins Entertainment, an Emmy-winning company noted for its work on high-profile music and cultural events. Their track record encompasses award shows such as the Emmys, American Music Awards, and previous Soul Train and BET Hip Hop Awards, positioning them as a fitting partner to bring this legacy event to life.

While the full lineup of performers and honorees remains under wraps, the anticipation is high for a celebration that honors past legends and spotlights the current vanguard of Black music. The event is expected to be a pivotal moment in the cultural calendar, reinforcing Soul Train’s enduring significance in American music and dance history.

As the 2026 Soul Train Awards approach, this collaboration between BET, Anthony Anderson, and Jesse Collins Entertainment is poised to deliver a night that not only commemorates a storied past but also energizes the future of Black musical artistry on a national stage.