The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards are right around the corner, and this year's show is already shaping up to be absolutely epic.

The 13th annual iHeartRadio Music Awards will celebrate the most-played artists and songs on iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app throughout 2025, while also offering a preview of the upcoming hits of 2026. The show will feature award presentations in multiple categories, live performances from the biggest artists in music, surprise guests and collaborations, and more.

And, like in years past, iHeartRadio is letting the fans choose the winners in several new and established categories. Fan voting will determine this year’s Favorite Broadway Debut, Favorite TikTok Dance, Favorite Debut Album, Best Lyrics, Best Music Video, Favorite On Screen, Favorite Tour Photographer, Favorite Soundtrack, Favorite Tour Style, Favorite Tour Tradition and Favorite K-pop Collab.

How to tune in live?

The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards airs LIVE from Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Thursday, March 26th (8:00-10:00pm ET live / PT tape-delayed) on FOX and will also be heard on iHeartRadio stations nationwide and on the free iHeartRadio app.

Who is performing?

This year's show is packed with amazing performers including Alex Warren, Lainey Wilson, Ludacris and RAYE will all be performing at this year's upcoming awards ceremony on Thursday, March 26th, in addition to TLC, Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue — performing together for the very first time! Kehlani and John Mellencamp will also be taking over the stage, with the latter receiving the iHeartRadio ICON Award. And it's all hosted by Ludacris who will also be taking on hosting duties.

Who else can fans expect to see?

The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards will feature special appearances by Alysa Liu, Ne-Yo, Nicole Scherzinger, Nikki Glaser, sombr, Weezer and more. And Taylor Swift is also set to make a special appearance, coincidentally in the show's 13th year — and it's her first awards show appearance of the year. She is up for nine awards, including Song of the Year, Pop Song of the Year, Favorite TikTok Dance, Best Lyrics, Best Music Video for "The Fate of Ophelia," as well as Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Favorite On Screen for "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era," and Favorite Tour Style "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour."

Who is nominated?

Artists receiving multiple nominations this year include Alex Warren, Bad Bunny, Benson Boone, BLACKPINK, Chris Brown, Ed Sheeran, Ella Langley, GloRilla, Grupo Frontera, HUNTR/X: EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, REI AMI, Jelly Roll, JENNIE, j-hope, KATSEYE, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Leon Thomas, Linkin Park, LISA, Mariah the Scientist, MOLIY, Morgan Wallen, Myles Smith, RAYE, ROSÉ, Sabrina Carpenter, Shinedown, sombr, SZA, Tate McRae, Taylor Swift, Twenty One Pilots and Zara Larsson. See the full list of nominees HERE.

Additionally, Ludacris will be honored with the 2026 iHeartRadio Landmark Award, which honors artists whose portfolio has shaped culture across multiple decades. A pioneering force in hip‑hop, Ludacris broke through with his major label debut album Back for the First Time (2000) which established him as a mainstream star. He went on to deliver multi‑platinum albums including Word of Mouf (2001), Chicken‑n‑Beer (2003) and The Red Light District (2004), solidifying his place as one of the defining artists of the 2000s. Over the course of his career, he has earned three Grammy Awards and expanded his cultural impact through acclaimed acting roles, including his long‑running role as Tej Parker in the Fast & Furious franchise. With 17 million albums sold in the U.S. and 24 million records sold worldwide, Ludacris remains one of hip‑hop’s most successful and influential artists. This performance also marks a celebratory moment as he launches into his next chapter of worldwide touring.

Each year the iHeartRadio Innovator Award is presented to an artist who has impacted both music and global culture throughout their career, and this year’s recipient is Miley Cyrus. From her groundbreaking role 20 years ago in Hannah Montana, a cultural phenomenon that continues to shape and inspire generations, to her evolution into one of the most fearless, dynamic and influential voices in music today, Miley’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. Beyond her artistry, Miley’s humanitarian work has made a profound impact. Through the Miley Cyrus Foundation, and the launch of Happy Hippie, she has been a powerful advocate for homeless and at‑risk youth, especially teens facing housing insecurity. Her efforts have helped amplify vulnerable voices, provide essential resources and build community for young people who need it most.

In addition to his performance, Alex Warren will be honored with the 2026 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award, celebrating his remarkable rise and record‑shattering achievements. Over the past year, Alex has emerged as one of the most impactful new voices in pop music, with his emotional songwriting and powerful performances resonating across generations. His success reached historic heights as he shattered all‑time Mediabase chart records, spending 16 weeks at No.1 on Top 40 and 29 weeks at No.1 on Hot AC, cementing his place among the most dominant radio artists of the modern era. Alex has built a deeply loyal fanbase, and his influence continues to grow as he uses his platform to foster community, connection and emotional openness among fans. This award recognizes Alex’s extraordinary trajectory, undeniable talent and the uniquely powerful bond he’s created with listeners around the world.

John Mellencamp will be performing and will also receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Icon Award. From defining an era with "Jack & Diane," "Pink Houses," and "Small Town," to continuing to influence generations of musicians with his unmistakable voice and point of view, Mellencamp’s work is woven deeply into the cultural fabric of the United States. This summer, Mellencamp will embark on his highly anticipated "Dancing Words Tour — The Greatest Hits," performing the songs that have defined his career — many of which he hasn’t played live in decades. Equally important to Mellencamp's artistry is his longstanding dedication to activism and advocacy. Throughout his career, he has championed causes close to America's heartland, including co‑founding Farm Aid to support family farmers — a commitment that has spanned nearly 40 years. His voice has always stood for compassion, community and integrity, reflecting the very values the Icon Award seeks to honor.

Graham Bunn

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