Teyana Taylor turned the 2026 Billboard Women in Music red carpet into a full family moment, and honestly, it was one of the sweetest parts of the night.
The “One Battle After Another” star stepped out in Los Angeles with her parents, Nikki Taylor and Tito Smith, and the trio kept close as they posed for photos. It felt less like a typical red carpet and more like a proud family night out.
Per WWD, Taylor made a statement in a sculptural ivory Ashi Studio gown, featuring a corseted bodice and bold, hair-like detailing that flowed into a sheer skirt. She paired the look with platform heels and voluminous curls, leaning into a dramatic, textured style that stood out immediately.
Her parents kept it classic, letting her shine while still looking polished right next to her. But the sweetest moment did not stop at photos. In a video that made the rounds online, Taylor was seen going down the line of reporters and hugging each one after she was unable to do interviews. She later reposted the clip, joking, “If I ain’t gone do nothing else, AuntTEY gone GIVEEEEE a hug!! lol,” per People.
It was very on-brand for her. Warm, real and all about connection.
A Red Carpet Mom Moment With Daughter Rue
That same energy showed up earlier this year when Taylor brought her daughter, Rue Rose Shumpert, to the Actor Awards in March.
She hit that carpet in a custom Thom Browne gown with a sculpted bodice and metallic skirt, fully leaning into the old Hollywood theme of the night. But what stood out most was seeing her pose with her daughter right beside her.
It added a personal touch to a big night. Taylor was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role and also shared a cast nomination.
She has also been open about what it takes to move through Hollywood as a woman, especially as a Black woman.
“The hardest part is being a woman in Hollywood,” she said. “The even harder part is being a Black woman in Hollywood,” per Elle.
Still, she made it clear she sees progress. “We’re not giving anybody a choice: you will see us and you will hear us,” she added.
Whether it is her daughter or her parents, Taylor keeps her people close.
The Family That Helped Shape Her
Those moments are rooted in her story.
Taylor was raised in Harlem by her mom, Nikki, who held things down as a single parent while her father was incarcerated. Nikki worked long hours but stayed fully involved in her daughter’s life.
When Taylor signed with Pharrell Williams at 15, Nikki quit her job and became her manager. She still manages her today, according to People.
Taylor has always been open about how much that meant to her, often crediting her mom for helping build her career from the ground up.
She also shares a strong bond with Nikki’s longtime partner, Boe Daney, who she considers a father figure. She calls him her “Pops,” and the relationship is close and supportive.
Now, Nikki and Boe are active grandparents to Taylor’s daughters, Junie and Rue, keeping that same love and support going into the next generation.
For Taylor, the red carpet is not just about the look. It is about who she brings with her.
“If I ain’t gone do nothing else, AuntTEY gone GIVEEEEE a hug!! lol,” she said, per People.
