New York, NY — The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, which previously aired on BET on August 30, expanded its reach to broadcast television syndication, bringing gospel music’s biggest night to audiences nationwide through September 27, 2026.
Hosted by Kirk Franklin, the annual awards ceremony was taped at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, under the theme, “Feels Like Home.” The celebration brought together some of gospel music’s most celebrated artists, trailblazers, and emerging voices for an evening of worship, inspiration, recognition, and performances.
Following its national cable premiere on BET on August 30 at 8 p.m. ET, with an encore presentation at 10:30 p.m. ET, the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards began airing in broadcast syndication on September 5. The syndicated run continued through September 27, allowing viewers across the country another opportunity to experience the annual celebration of gospel music.
The broadcast featured an all-star lineup of performances from Aaron Cole, Céjae, Darrel Walls, Jekalyn Carr, Jevon Dewand & The Trap Starz featuring Isaac Carree and Jazze Pha, JustCordell, John P. Kee, Lisa Knowles-Smith & The Brown Singers, Melvin Crispell III, PJ Morton, Tye Tribbett featuring ABLAZE, Maranda Curtis, Marvin Sapp, William Murphy, and Vincent Bohanan & SOV. Franklin also delivered a special performance during the ceremony.
L-R: Tasha Cobbs Leonard and her husband, Kenneth Leonard, Jonathan McReynolds, and Yolanda Adams on the purple carpet at the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards in Charlotte, NC – August 15, 2026; Photo Credit: Leon Bennett/Getty Images for Central City Productions
The evening reflected the depth and diversity of gospel music, showcasing traditional gospel, contemporary worship, choir music, and genre-blending collaborations.
Two influential figures in gospel music were also honored during the ceremony. Tasha Cobbs Leonard received the Aretha Franklin Icon Award, while Pastor Mike Jr. was presented with the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award.
Don Jackson, founder of the Stellar Awards and chairman of Central City Productions, Inc., previously emphasized the cultural and spiritual significance of the awards and gospel music’s continued influence.
“As we celebrate the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, we are reminded that gospel music continues to be one of the most powerful forces for inspiration, healing, and hope in our communities,” Jackson said.
“For more than four decades, the Stellar Awards have honored the artists, songwriters, musicians, and visionaries whose faith-filled contributions have shaped culture and touched lives around the world.”
Jackson added that the organization remained committed to honoring the legacy of gospel music while embracing a new generation of artists who would continue carrying its message forward.
BET President Louis Carr also previously highlighted the network’s relationship with gospel music and the importance of bringing the Stellar Awards to its audience.
“Gospel music brings community, culture, and connection together like nothing else, and that’s what makes BET its perfect home,” Carr said.
“We’re honored to celebrate the artists and creators whose gift moves millions, and to bring gospel’s greatest night to our audience.”
The 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards was executive produced by Don Jackson. Jennifer J. Jackson served as producer and executive in charge of production, while Michael A. Johnson served as producer and director. Erin Johnson-Pressley served as talent producer, and Daniel Moore served as music director.
With its BET premiere already completed, the Stellar Awards continued their celebration of gospel music through broadcast syndication, reaching additional audiences nationwide through September 27, 2026.
For more information about the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, visit stellarawards.com and follow the conversation using the hashtag #TheStellars.
