Black stars honoured at awards

Earth, Wind & Fire received a lifetime achievement award and boxer Muhammad Ali was honoured with a humanitarian award at the second annual BET awards.

The Black Entertainment Television event recognises black people in music, film and sports categories.

The awards are voted for by record label executives, media and fans.

Hosts for the ceremony at Hollywood’s Kodak Theatre last night were comedians Steve Harvey and Cedric the Entertainer.

Halle Berry, who won a best actress Oscar for Monster’s Ball, took home the favourite actress prize;

Will Smith, who starred in the boxing biography Ali, won the actor award. Neither prize specified a particular role.

Earth Wind & Fire was recognised for more than 30 years of musical achievement.

The group was founded by drummer Maurice White and includes his bassist brother Verdine White, and singer-percussionists Philip Bailey and Ralph Johnson.