Queen Latifah is returning as host of the 52nd American Music Awards, airing live on Memorial Day, May 25, on CBS. This marks Latifah’s second time hosting the AMAs, following her earlier role as co-host in 1995.
The AMAs returned in 2025 after a nearly three-year break, staging their first live ceremony since 2022, with Jennifer Lopez as host. “I am so excited to return to the American Music Awards stage to host this year,” Latifah said. “It’s been an incredible year for music and there is no better place to celebrate than in Vegas.”
Jay Penske, CEO of Dick Clark Productions, praised the choice of host, sharing in a statement: “We’re thrilled to welcome Queen Latifah back as host of the American Music Awards. A true powerhouse and trailblazer, she brings a dynamic presence and deep connection to both fans and fellow artists, making her the perfect choice to lead a night celebrating the biggest names and most defining moments in music.”
Created by Dick Clark in 1974, the AMAs recognize the year’s biggest musical achievements, with winners determined by fans. Nominations for the 2026 awards will be announced April 14, the same day fan voting opens, and will remain open until May 8. Organizers say the awards recognize “the most influential artists and songs of today,” with nominees determined by fan engagement reflected on the Billboard charts — including streaming numbers, sales, radio airplay, and touring performance.
The 2026 show will expand to 50 categories, up from 37, highlighting rising talent with new “breakthrough” honors across genres including pop, hip-hop, country, R&B, Latin, and rock/alternative, along with awards for touring artists and albums. Additional details about performers, presenters, special honorees, and ticket availability are expected in the coming weeks. The show traditionally features live performances and standout collaborations, described by producers as “a multi-genre, cross-generational celebration of music.”
The ceremony will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, marking the show’s debut at the venue, with a coast-to-coast broadcast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and streaming available on Paramount+.
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