Keke Palmer to Host Billboard's Women in Music Ceremony

The 2026 event will take place on April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium.

Mar. 1, 2026 at 12:23am

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Keke Palmer will serve as the host for the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony, which is set to take place on April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. Billboard's chief brand officer, Dana Droppo, praised Palmer's 'fearless, multifaceted, and deeply respected' persona across entertainment and culture, saying she will bring a 'vivacious energy, sharp perspective, and lovable authenticity' to the event.

Why it matters

The Billboard Women in Music ceremony honors artists who are shaping the sound of today's music and charting what's to come. Keke Palmer's hosting role highlights her growing influence and respect across the entertainment industry, as she continues to balance successful careers in film, television, hosting, and music.

The details

Palmer's hosting duties come as she recently released her latest album, 'Just Keke,' in 2025. Details about this year's honorees, performers, and presenters will be revealed in the weeks leading up to the April 29 event.

  • The 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony is set for April 29.
  • Keke Palmer recently released her album 'Just Keke' in 2025.

The players

Keke Palmer

An American actress, singer, and television personality who will host the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony.

Dana Droppo

The chief brand officer of Billboard, who praised Keke Palmer's hosting role for the 2026 event.

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What they’re saying

“The 2026 Billboard Women in Music presented by Sonesta International Hotels honors artists who are not only shaping the sound of today, but charting what's to come. This year's honorees have bold vision, global influence, and artistic excellence across genres — and we're especially thrilled to have Keke Palmer as our host. Keke embodies the spirit of Women in Music: fearless, multifaceted, and deeply respected across entertainment and culture. She brings a vivacious energy, sharp perspective, and lovable authenticity that will make this year's show truly special.”

— Dana Droppo, Chief Brand Officer, Billboard

What’s next

Details about this year's Billboard Women in Music honorees, performers, and presenters will be revealed in the weeks ahead.

The takeaway

Keke Palmer's hosting role for the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony underscores her growing influence and respect across the entertainment industry, as she continues to balance successful careers in film, television, hosting, and music.