**Celebrating 30 Years of The Webby Awards in New York City**
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The Webby Awards, a prestigious accolade that recognises digital excellence, is set to commemorate its 30th anniversary in New York City on 11th May. This year’s ceremony will feature the Emmy-nominated stand-up comedian Josh Johnson as the host, promising a night filled with entertainment and celebration of the creative minds shaping the digital landscape.
Established in 1996, the Webbys have evolved into an influential platform that awards individuals and organisations for their contributions to the internet. Honourees this year include prominent figures such as Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Kylie Kelce, Keith Lee, and Trixie Mattel, all of whom have pushed boundaries in their respective fields.
In advance of the upcoming ceremony, an exclusive feature by PEOPLE has revealed some of the winners for this year. Notably, The Webby Awards have a rich history that has seen participation from numerous stars and innovators since their inception.
As the excitement builds, PEOPLE has taken the opportunity to delve into the archives of The Webby Awards and present rare photographs that capture the essence of past ceremonies. This includes never-before-seen images of legendary performers like Amy Poehler, Snoop Dogg, and David Byrne, alongside vintage snapshots of icons such as Prince, Kim Kardashian, and Anna Wintour, chronicling memorable moments in internet history.
Looking back at the 12th annual event in 2008, David Byrne received the Lifetime Achievement Award. This honour reflects his remarkable impact on the music industry and digital creativity. Also honoured at this event, Anna Wintour delivered a famously succinct five-word acceptance speech, which was memorable for its brevity yet powerful message.
The 14th annual Webby Awards in 2010 featured Lisa Kudrow receiving an award for her series *Web Therapy*, showcasing the increasing recognition of digital programming. Daniel Radcliffe also played a part by presenting the People’s Voice Award for Best Fashion Website to Anna Wintour for Vogue, establishing the awards as an essential event in the fashion and technology nexus.
Celebrated actors and entertainers continue to be a staple at the Webbys. Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepted the Podcast of the Year award for *Wiser Than Me* at last year’s event, reinforcing the growing significance of podcasting as a medium. The ceremony is not just a recognition of past achievements; it also heralds the ongoing evolution of content and creativity in the digital age.
Snoop Dogg, one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry, accepted the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 29th Webby Awards in 2025, a testament to his formidable influence and ongoing success as a business mogul. Another notable recipient, Keke Palmer, was presented with a Special Achievement Award, highlighting the diverse talents being recognised as we celebrate digital excellence.
The Webby Awards have consistently embraced a whimsical spirit. Notably, in 2006 at their 10th annual ceremony, Prince delivered an unforgettable five-minute rendition of “Don’t Play Me”, showcasing the event’s blend of celebration and artistry. Further, 2016 saw Kim Kardashian receive the ‘Break the Internet’ award, demonstrating the awards’ commitment to recognising the power of social media and its impact on modern communication.
As the 30th annual Webby Awards approach, anticipation is mounting not only for who will take home honours but also for the memorable moments in internet history that will surely be celebrated. With each ceremony, the Webbys continue to honour the creativity, artistry, and innovation within the digital realm, marking them as a cornerstone of contemporary culture. As the industry evolves, so too does the significance of The Webby Awards, reflecting the changing dynamics of how we engage with and celebrate the internet today.