BET Awards Draws 7.7 Million Viewers

The BET Awards drew 7.7 million viewers on Sunday night.

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The network’s annual awards show — which aired live from Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium -- is traditionally one of BET’s most-watched events.

Last year’s show was watched by 7.4 million viewers. But the 2009 awards, which occurred soon after the death of Michael Jackson, is still the record-holder at 10.7 million viewers.

This year, Chris Brown took home the award for best male R&B artist. Brown also accepted the award for best collaboration for  "Look at Me Now" featuring Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes. He performed the song with Rhymes during the show.

Nicki Minaj was named best female hip-hop artist, while Kanye West took the trophy in the male category. West wasn't in attendance, so Justin Bieber accepted on his behalf.

Wiz Khalifa was named best new artist. The YoungStars Award resulted in a tie, given to brother and sister Jaden and Willow Smith, children of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith.

Other winners included Michael Vick and Serena Williams, named best sportsman and sportswoman of the year.