Queen Latifah is set to return to the American Music Awards (AMAs) stage as the host for the 2026 ceremony, more than three decades after her last appearance in 1995. The event will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Monday, 25 May, and marks a significant milestone in the 56-year-old artist’s illustrious career.
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Reflecting on her upcoming hosting duties, Latifah expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness. She noted, “It’s a big deal to be back.” Having cohosted the AMAs alongside Tom Jones and Lorrie Morgan in 1995, she remarked on how much has changed since then. “That was big then,” she said, underscoring her astonishment at returning to the spotlight after so many years.
This time, Latifah will lead the show solo, a change from her previous experience. Despite the pressure of going at it alone, she remains optimistic. “I know it’s going to be great just because of the people that are performing,” she added. The AMAs are unique in that they are fan-driven, with the audience voting for their favourite artists and songs. Latifah emphasised her commitment to ensuring that the fans enjoy the performances and feel included in the experience.
The 2026 AMAs will feature an impressive line-up of performers, including honorees Billy Idol, Karol G, Darius Rucker, and Hootie & the Blowfish. Other acts scheduled to appear are KATSEYE, Keith Urban, Maluma, New Kids on the Block, The Pussycat Dolls, Busta Rhymes, Riley Green, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor, and Twenty One Pilots. When asked which acts she is most eager to see, Latifah lit up at the mention of The Pussycat Dolls and Busta Rhymes, predicting a particularly electrifying performance. “I know Busta, and then The Pussycat Dolls, they get down; they sing, they dance, they light the stage up,” she declared.
Queen Latifah has ample experience in hosting prestigious events. In addition to her stint at the 1995 AMAs, she has been a host for various award shows, including the People’s Choice Awards, the BET Awards, and the Grammy Awards. Latifah takes great joy in her role as a host, describing her favourite aspect as being a part of the shared experience and guiding viewers through the celebration. “These shows are there to honour people and celebrate their achievements,” she noted.
Reflecting on her previous experience at the 1995 AMAs, Latifah fondly remembers the thrill of mingling with fellow stars and preparing her outfits for the night. “People have shown me pictures of this red leather outfit I had on,” she recalled. “I can still remember the feeling of that leather. It was so buttery soft.” She also reminisced about a black dress she had worn that she described as velvety and form-fitting. “It might’ve been purple, but it had this stretch to it and just felt sexy and comfortable at the same time,” she added, recalling the extensive curls and hairspray in her hairstyle at the time.
As she looks forward to the 2026 AMAs, Latifah expressed her intent to make the event run as smoothly as possible. “I want to make sure it happens as fluidly as possible so we get this show in the can and say, ‘Yes, we did that,’” she said enthusiastically.
The anticipation surrounding the awards show continues to build as fans eagerly await the performances and celebrations of musical talent. Queen Latifah’s return as host promises to add a sense of nostalgia and excitement to an event that aims to honour iconic figures in the music industry.
The 2026 American Music Awards will be broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET, and with Latifah at the helm, audiences are almost guaranteed a remarkable evening filled with music, memories, and magic.