Janet Jackson Was Hiding ‘Discomfort’ Onstage at BET Awards

Now that the 2026 BET Awards are in the books, we’re looking back at some of the best moments and the biggest winners.

One moment people can’t stop buzzing about from the star-studded ceremony on June 28 is when Janet Jackson surprised Teyana Taylor and presented her with the Icon of the Year Award. Now, an expert is breaking down that emotional moment and why the “Rhythm Nation” artist wasn’t as comfortable as usual when she spoke about Taylor.

Inbaal Honigman is an astrologer and body language expert. She has appeared in the media for more than 20 years, offering her expertise and perspectives on current events and pop culture figures for several outlets, including Big Brother’s Little Brother, Elle Magazine, and talkSPORT radio, to name a few.

Speaking on behalf of Casino Guru, Honigman told Showbiz Cheat Sheet, “The iconic creator walks onto the stage like a goddess blessing her worshippers. She walks slowly, purposefully, holding her arms in front of her, a little like a religious leader. Janet’s slow and deliberate walking suggests that she views herself as different from everyone else there.”

Honigman continued, “Her words to Teyana Taylor are given with a generosity of spirit, as her smile is warm and genuine, and Janet is nodding with each word. Janet doesn’t communicate like a regular person. Her moves are a little exaggerated, which is perhaps entirely normal for someone who’s been insanely famous since birth.

“Despite her ethereal movements, Janet is still human and she is a little overwhelmed, as her hands show. Janet’s hands are gathered in front of her protectively, as she feels vulnerable in front of the audience. This protective gesture indicates her feelings of vulnerability and discomfort.”

Honigman also talked about Taylor’s overwhelming emotional response to receiving the award from Jackson.

“Teyana’s overwhelming, shocked and tearful response to Janet Jackson presenting her with the Icon Award is completely genuine,” Honigman said. “Her reaction may appear totally unhinged, as she’s unable to control her tears and sobs, but Taylor wears her heart on her sleeve, and there is no fakeness there. Tears wash over her face as her chest rises and falls with each sob … She glances up at Janet, not even trying to hide how moved she is.”

Honigman added, “[Taylor] holds her shoulders tight and close into her body, trying to make herself small, as she feels unworthy of all the love that she’s being showered with. Walking up to the stage, Teyana breaks into a little run, excited and enthusiastic. This little run shows that Teyana is not confident. She jogs as if someone would take her honor away in case she was late.

“Bouncing up and down on the stage, Teyana tries to release her explosive nerves. She rocks from side to side, shaking off the discomfort that she is feeling. Being showered with attention and affection feels uncomfortable to her.”

Showbiz Cheat Sheet acknowledges that conditions and cultures can impact body language and is sensitive to all backgrounds.