Los Angeles - UPI
Janet Jackson is to be presented with the inaugural Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual prize at the BET Awards ceremony in Los Angeles Sunday night.
Ciara, Jason Derulo and Tinashe are slated to perform a special dance tribute to the beloved entertainer. The homage is expected to include Jackson's latest single, "No Sleeep."
"This is Janet Jackson, people! We are excited beyond belief to present her with our inaugural Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual award and we are thrilled that she chose the BET Awards as the first step on her new road," Stephen G. Hill, BET's president of programming, said in a statement. "An inspiration to many other artists, Ms. Jackson ('cause I'm nasty) blends music, dance and visuals in unique and groundbreaking ways and we look forward to celebrating her storied history... as well as giving the BET Awards audience a peek into her Unbreakable future."
Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the BET Awards show will also include performances by Chris Brown, Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj and Meek Mill.
Among the presenters confirmed for the event are Michael Ealy, Sanaa Lathan, Laverne Cox, Michael B. Jordan and Zendaya. Smokey Robinson is to perform and receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Tom Joyner will be presented with the Humanitarian Award.