Queen Latifah to Host 2026 American Music Awards, Returns After 30 Years

Queen Latifah is set to make a triumphant return to the American Music Awards stage, having been selected to host the prestigious ceremony on May 25 at Las Vegas's MGM Grand Garden Arena. This marks a significant milestone, as it represents her first hosting role at the AMAs in three decades.

The multi-talented entertainer originally co-hosted the American Music Awards in 1995, sharing the stage with Tom Jones and Lorrie Morgan. The upcoming ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, coinciding with Memorial Day weekend. Dick Clark Productions (DCP) will produce the event, with tickets currently available through AXS.

"I am so excited to return to the American Music Awards stage to host this year," Queen Latifah expressed in an official statement. "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 selection, stating: "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."

The 2025 ceremony, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, witnessed Billie Eilish's remarkable dominance with seven victories, including the coveted Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year awards. Notably, Beyoncé made history by claiming her first country music AMAs, winning Favorite Country Album and Favorite Female Country Artist, adding to her impressive collection of 11 AMA trophies.

Queen Latifah's recent accolades include being honored by the White House in 2024 alongside Missy Elliott, Steven Spielberg, and the late Selena Quintanilla as recipients of the 2022 and 2023 National Medals of Arts and Humanities.

Currently, the acclaimed artist is developing her biographical film through a collaborative effort between her production company Flavor Unit Entertainment, Will Smith's Westbrook Studios, and Jesse Collins Entertainment.

Penske Media Corporation owns Dick Clark Productions and serves as the parent company of Rolling Stone.