Taraji P. Henson dazzled audiences at the 2024 BET Awards with seven show-stopping looks. The actor, hosting for the third consecutive year, showcased her versatility through a series of stunning outfit changes.
Each ensemble was paired with a unique wig and makeup style, creating a visual feast for viewers.
Golden Glamour: Henson’s Red Carpet Radiance
Henson kicked off the night in head-to-toe gold. She wore an angled bob wig with blonde highlights, complemented by gold eye shadow.
Her glimmering golden manicure completed the look. Makeup artist Saisha Beecham used Kiss New York’s Pearl Blush Wand in Bold Begonia and Pearl Highlight Wand in Merry Marigold for a radiant glow.
This opening look set the tone for an evening of glamour and style. Henson’s ability to transform her appearance throughout the night kept viewers eagerly anticipating each new reveal.
’90s Nostalgia: A Tribute to Aaliyah
Henson paid homage to the late R&B icon Aaliyah with a side-parted style featuring full bangs. Hairstylist Tym Wallace created a soft coppery brown hue for this look.
“We’re celebrating Black music, so I had to pay homage to the ’90s and ‘our baby girl’ Aaliyah,” Wallace explained. This nostalgic style perfectly captured the essence of ’90s fashion and music.
Quick Changes: The Secret Behind Henson’s Transformations
Wallace relied on Professional Hair Labs Ghostbond Glow Up Revolutionary Wig Glue for Henson’s numerous hair changes. This product ensured a flawless appearance on HD TV while allowing for quick style switches.
The Shark FlexStyle Sparkle Air Styling & Drying system was another essential tool. It enabled rapid styling changes between Henson’s various looks throughout the night.
Diana Ross Inspiration: A Supreme Tribute
Henson and Wallace also honored Diana Ross with a twist on the Supremes-era bob. Wallace shared his technique: “I prepped the wig by refreshing and detangling with TPH by Taraji’s Soak it Off, then reset with Keep It Fresh.”
This look featured a short bob paired with a white outfit and pearl necklaces. Henson’s gold nails were swapped for white stiletto tips, completing the transformation.
’70s Glam: Channeling Diana Ross
Later in the evening, Henson embodied ’70s-era Diana Ross. She sported full, fluffed-out curls paired with a glam red lip. Metallic silver nails added a modern touch to this retro-inspired look.
This versatile hairstyle made multiple appearances during the show. Henson wore it while playing the banjo onstage, pairing the curls with shimmery, glowy golden makeup.
Modern Chic: Wavy Lob and Lime Green
One of the night’s standout looks featured a wavy black lob with bangs. Henson paired this contemporary hairstyle with a strapless lime green dress. The combination created a fresh, modern aesthetic that showcased her fashion-forward sensibilities.
Henson’s final transformation paid homage to rapper Kendrick Lamar. She donned a hat and hoodie to parody Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” This unexpected look demonstrated Henson’s range and willingness to have fun with her hosting duties.
Throughout the night, Henson used her platform to address important issues. She urged viewers to vote in November, emphasizing the significance of down-ballot races. Her impassioned speech highlighted the potential impacts of the upcoming election on various aspects of American life.
