Black Entertainment Television will dedicate tonight's (June 28) 2009 BET Awards show to the legacy of Michael Jackson.
BET president and CEO Debra Lee said the African-American targeted network will pay tribute to Jackson, who died Thursday, during the three hour and 30-minute show. The annual Awards Show, hosted by Jamie Foxx, will feature performances by Beyonce, Ne-Yo, Kanye West, and Mary, Mary.
Also on Sunday, the network will pay tribute to Jackson during its 106 & Park: Live From The Red Carpet pre-awards show from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
"Words cannot capture the impact Michael Jackson has had on pop culture around the world," said Lee in a statement. "He changed the way we hear and feel and move to music; he epitomized what true musical talent and star power really mean. He is and always will be the King of Pop.
Lee added: "Michael's influence is felt every day in so many ways at BET Networks, and it's been that way throughout our network's entire 29-year history. We watched him grow up, and he truly feels like he is a member of our family. He will be missed more than we can say...but his legend and memory live on in the artists, musicians, producers, dancers, fans, and everyone else who looks to him for inspiration. All of us at BET Networks send our thoughts and prayers to the Jackson family."
