Actor and comedian D.L. Hughley will take the reins as the host of BET Awards 08. Tagged as “the hottest ticket on television,” producers are raising the stakes as the biggest stars in music, sports and entertainment unite under one roof at Los Angeles’ historic Shrine Auditorium on Tuesday, June 24 at 8pm.

As a member of The Original Kings of Comedy and star of his own sitcom, “The Hughleys,” D.L. has made a name for himself in the world of entertainment. He was most recently seen starring in a one-hour comedy special for HBO entitled “Unapologetic” and as host of “Def Comedy Jam.”

As host, he follows in the footsteps of megastar Will Smith and wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, Comedians Mo’Nique, Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and Damon Wayans.

Some of the biggest acts in the business will perform live on the show including Usher, Nelly and Lil Wayne. Newly announced performers include Alicia Keys, nominated for Best Female R&B, Video of the Year and Viewer’s Choice; multiple nominee Kanye West (Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration with T-Pain on the single “Good Life” and Video of the Year for the same); Chris Brown, who has locked in four nominations including Best Male R&B, Viewer’s Choice and Best Collaboration with T-Pain on “Kiss Kiss”; and Best Collaboration nominee Young Jeezy.

In keeping with the history-making track record of the most highly anticipated night in Black entertainment, BET is pulling out all of the stops in naming this year’s special honorees.

Legendary R&B icon Al Green will be in the house to receive BET’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Joining him will be celebrated producer/arranger/composer Quincy Jones, who will be honored with BET’s prestigious Humanitarian Award for his outreach to young African-Americans through the Listen Up Foundation, a charity which connects youth with music, technology and culture. In addition, Jones helped launch the We Are the Future project, giving hope to children in poor and conflict-ridden areas.

For the past seven years, the BET AWARDS has boasted unforgettable moments such as Michael Jackson’s surprise appearance during James Brown’s tribute; Rick James in his final duet with Teena Marie; Will Smith presenting Muhammad Ali with the first-ever Humanitarian Award; Prince onstage backing Chaka Khan; Stevie Wonder, Yolanda Adams and India.Arie in a powerhouse tribute to Rufus’ first lady of funk; Destiny’s Child’s steamy lap dance; the reunion of one of hip hop’s most beloved trios, The Fugees; and last year’s touching opening performance with Jennifer Hudson and Jennifer Holliday.

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