The Soul Train Awards are making a comeback, and BET has tapped a familiar face to lead the celebration of R&B, soul and Black music.
Anthony Anderson will host the 2026 ceremony in Chicago, the city where the Soul Train legacy began, the network announced Thursday. The show is scheduled to air on Nov. 27.
The Black-ish star returns to emcee duties after hosting the BET Awards in 2015 and 2016. He also hosted the NAACP Image Awards for eight consecutive years, and the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards.
“I’m thrilled to be back with BET and especially excited to host the Soul Train Awards in Chicago, where the Soul Train legacy began,” Anderson said in a statement.
“Soul Train is more than a television show or an awards franchise, it’s a piece of our cultural history. Don Cornelius created a platform that gave Black artists a place to shine, and generations later, that spirit is still alive,” he continued. “I’m looking forward to celebrating the legends, the artists shaping R&B and soul today, and bringing a whole lot of fun to the night.”
Related: Soul Train Awards to Make Comeback in Chicago, Where It All Began
This year’s ceremony marks the awards’ return after a three-year break. The last show aired in 2023, with Keke Palmer hosting. BET suspended the Soul Train Awards and BET Hip Hop Awards indefinitely in August 2025 while the network reconsidered its broadcast strategy.
Now, producers are preparing a night of performances, tributes and honors.
“Anthony brings an incredible combination of comedic instinct, musical knowledge and genuine love for this culture,” said Connie Orlando, BET’s executive vice president of specials, music programming and music strategy.
BET President Louis Carr said Anderson’s connection to the network and understanding of the franchise’s history made him a strong choice to host.
“He understands the legacy, the music and the importance of creating a moment that brings people together,” Carr said.
The ceremony airs Friday, Nov. 27 at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS. Performers, honorees and additional details about the Soul Train Awards will be announced in the coming weeks.
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