Taraji P. Henson Starts BET Awards with a Parody of “Not Like Us”

The actress received a round of applause from the audience as she delivered a passionate rap about her experiences in the film industry. She touched on topics like lackluster scripts and the prevalence of nepotism, showcasing her frustration with the status quo. “Sometimes you gotta step up and make a statement,” she rhymed, ending the performance with a powerful chorus of “This about us / This about us.”

Taraji P. Henson is no stranger to the spotlight. Having previously hosted the BET Awards in both 2021 and 2022, she knows how to command a stage. Following her electrifying performance, Henson kicked off the awards show by poking fun at Donald Trump and his divisive rhetoric regarding immigrants, particularly in relation to African American employment. She cleverly remarked, “[This is] a lineup filled with talented individuals who contribute to the Black community. Whatever that may mean,” subtly referencing Trump’s controversial remarks. She went on to emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating the unique contributions of Black individuals in the entertainment industry.

With her fierce and unapologetic delivery, Taraji P. Henson set the tone for a night of celebration and empowerment at the awards ceremony. Her bold statements and undeniable talent solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.