The iHeartRadio Music Awards return tonight (March 26), bringing the most radio-driven ceremony of the year back to the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Airing live across multiple platforms, the 13th annual edition blends chart dominance, fan voting, and high-profile performances into a two-hour primetime event.
Here’s everything you need to know before the ceremony starts.
How to Watch the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026 Live
Viewers can watch the show live from 8:00–10:00 p.m. ET on FOX, while simultaneous coverage will stream through iHeartRadio stations nationwide and the app itself. Ludacris will host the ceremony.
Performers
This year’s lineup leans heavily on cross-generational appeal. Alex Warren, Lainey Wilson, and RAYE are confirmed performers, alongside host Ludacris, who will also take the stage. A historic joint set from TLC, Salt-N-Pepa, and En Vogue marks their first-ever performance together, while Kehlani and John Mellencamp round out the main stage.
Special Guests and Appearances
Special appearances add further star power. Taylor Swift is set to attend her first awards show of the year, entering the night with nine nominations, including Song of the Year for “The Fate of Ophelia.” Additional presenters and guests include Ne-Yo, Nicole Scherzinger, Nikki Glaser, and Weezer, among others.
Major Awards and Honors to Watch
Major honors will shape the narrative of the night. Ludacris receives the Landmark Award, recognizing over two decades of cultural impact, from Back for the First Time (2000) through multi-platinum releases like Word of Mouf (2001) and The Red Light District (2004). Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus will be presented with the Innovator Award, acknowledging a career that spans from Hannah Montana to her current position as a defining pop voice. Breakthrough Artist of the Year goes to Alex Warren, whose 16-week run at No. 1 on Top 40 radio and 29 weeks atop Hot AC mark one of the most dominant radio streaks in recent years.
Nominees and Fan-Voted Categories
Taylor Swift (9) is the top nominee for the 2026 iHeart Radio Music Awards. Several artists secured multiple nominations, including Bad Bunny, SZA, Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tate McRae, alongside global acts like BLACKPINK and JENNIE. Fan-voted categories remain a key differentiator, giving audiences direct influence over outcomes in 11 awards.
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