Netizens are perplexed by a specific clothing item Kendrick Lamar wore at the BET Awards, where he won big and delivered an acceptance speech.
On June 9, 2025, some of Hollywood’s biggest stars attended the BET Awards at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California. Among the A-listers at the event was iconic rapper Kendrick Lamar.
Lamar’s appearance turned heads the moment he stepped onto the stage — not just for his winning streak, but for his unconventional ensemble that immediately ignited online chatter. The rapper sported a tailored black suit paired with a crisp white shirt, but it was the accessory atop his head that sparked the most debate.
Draped in what resembled a light colored, knit fabric with dangling knots at the ends, the headpiece flowed down both sides of his face.
Style wasn’t the only statement Lamar made that evening. The Compton native swept through the ceremony with five impressive wins, solidifying his dominance in the industry once again. He clinched Album of the Year for his project “GNX” and was named Best Male Hip Hop Artist.
His viral track “Not Like Us” earned Video of the Year, while his soulful duet “Luther” with SZA took home Best Collaboration. Lamar also shared Video Director of the Year honors with his longtime creative partner, Dave Free.
In his acceptance speech, Lamar delivered heartfelt gratitude with signature coolness and charisma. “I ain’t been here in a long time, but I always kept my heart BET,” he told the roaring crowd, thanking the network for continuing to uplift the culture.
The rapper acknowledged his faith, his family, his team, and SZA — inviting fans to catch them on tour — before being met onstage by Kevin Hart, who jokingly struggled to carry all of Lamar’s awards. “I love you, boy, congrats on everything,” Hart declared, wrapping the moment in laughter and warm applause.
While Lamar’s wins certainly stole the show, it was his head-turning accessory that kept viewers buzzing long after the event ended. Across platforms, fans and casual observers alike voiced curiosity — and mild bewilderment — about the item perched atop his head.
One person bluntly questioned, “Why is he wearing a towel?” Someone else echoed the sentiment, “What’s on his head?” Yet another spectator wondered aloud, “what is kendrick wearing over his head? thought it was a towel but [sic]…”
Even amid praise for his speech, confusion persisted, with someone writing, “I get the speech and all but What’s that on his head? 😅 [sic].”
On the other hand, several fans took to the comment sections to gush over Lamar’s appearance and the impression he left behind. Some admired his charm, calling out how “he got [sic] the cutest smile ever” and remarking that “he looks so good.”
One Facebooker noted his stature while offering congratulations. Meanwhile, a deeply moved admirer reflected on the musician’s impact, sharing how Lamar’s artistry had helped them navigate personal struggles and expressing heartfelt gratitude.
Despite the swirl of speculation around his attire, the outpouring of love and admiration made one thing clear: Lamar’s presence remains powerful, whether through fashion statements or soul-stirring music.
Kendrick Lamar accepts one of his five BET Awards while wearing a black suit and a headpiece that sparked viral buzz online. The moment took place onstage at the Peacock Theater during the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles, California.
Speaking to the crowd, Kendrick Lamar delivers a heartfelt message while accepting an award at the 2025 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theater. His unconventional head covering continued to draw attention during his time at the mic.
With a calm yet powerful presence, Kendrick Lamar addresses the audience after winning at the 2025 BET Awards. Dressed in a black-and-white ensemble, the artist held his trophy proudly as he stood before the glowing geometric backdrop.
Backstage at the Peacock Theater, Kendrick Lamar poses in his full BET Awards 2025 look — a black tux paired with the now-iconic head covering, knotted in the front, which drew curiosity and commentary across social media.
Kendrick Lamar stands alongside comedian Kevin Hart, juggling several of his five BET Awards trophies. The humorous exchange followed Lamar’s emotional speech, and unfolded live onstage at the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles.
Kendrick Lamar beams onstage while accepting Album of the Year for “GNX” at the 2025 BET Awards, hosted at the Peacock Theater. The rapper’s striking look and genuine smile lit up the room as fans erupted in applause.
Holding up one of his trophies, Kendrick Lamar stands next to Kevin Hart as they share a lighthearted moment at the 2025 BET Awards. Lamar’s multiple wins became a running joke as Hart attempted to help him carry the load.
Kendrick Lamar addresses the audience after receiving an award at the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles. Wearing a sleek black suit and his viral headpiece, the rapper looked both stylish and reflective in the spotlight.
Seated in the audience during the 2025 BET Awards, Kendrick Lamar flashes a relaxed smile. His head covering remained the center of online buzz as he watched the show from his spot at the Peacock Theater.
Kendrick Lamar poses with SZA at the 2025 BET Awards, where the two won Best Collaboration for their song “Luther.” The pair shared a celebratory moment at the Peacock Theater.
Kendrick Lamar flashes a bright smile while holding a trophy onstage at the 2025 BET Awards. Dressed in his now-iconic head covering and black suit, the rapper appeared genuinely moved by the evening’s continued recognition.
Onstage at the Peacock Theater, Kendrick Lamar shares a warm moment with Keke Palmer as he receives another award during the 2025 BET Awards. The rapper, wearing a knit headpiece, leans in to accept the trophy with a gracious smile.
Kevin Hart shares a laugh with Kendrick Lamar while handing over one of the artist’s many awards during a playful exchange onstage at the 2025 BET Awards. Lamar’s hands were already full of trophies by this point in the show.
Kendrick Lamar looks on with a smile as Kevin Hart presents him with yet another award during the 2025 BET Awards. The duo’s lighthearted banter added a comedic highlight to the rapper’s sweep of the night’s top honors.
Backstage at the Peacock Theater, Kendrick Lamar is all smiles as he greets well-wishers and clutches multiple awards following his wins at the 2025 BET Awards. His layered look included a knit headpiece tied at the front.
Kendrick Lamar steps onstage at the 2025 BET Awards. The rapper, known for his signature composure, kept his head bowed slightly as he made his way up the steps to accept one of his awards.
Beaming as he accepts an award, Kendrick Lamar shares a cheerful exchange with Keke Palmer during the 2025 BET Awards. The rapper’s unique headwear and multiple wins made him one of the night’s most talked-about stars.
Standing beside Kevin Hart, Kendrick Lamar raises one of his trophies in the air while holding others. The crowd cheered as the 2025 BET Awards turned into a celebratory sweep for the rapper and cultural icon.
Kendrick Lamar laughs with Kevin Hart during a light moment onstage at the 2025 BET Awards. Surrounded by fellow artists, the pair’s camaraderie and Lamar’s impressive stack of awards brought levity to the night’s triumphs.
Seated front row at the 2025 BET Awards, Kendrick Lamar poses with fellow attendees, King Matta and Dave Free, in a composed, relaxed moment. He sported his now-viral headpiece alongside a sleek black suit and white shirt.