Darren Criss to Host 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony

Current Grammy nominee tapped for pre-show duties ahead of Music's Biggest Night

Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:07pm

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First-time Grammy nominee Darren Criss will host the 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony, the pre-show event that precedes the main Grammy Awards telecast. Criss, an acclaimed actor and musician, will help kick off Music's Biggest Day with his hosting duties.

Why it matters

The Grammy Premiere Ceremony is an important part of the overall Grammy Awards program, featuring many of the awards presentations not included in the main broadcast. Criss' selection as host highlights his rising star status in the music industry, as he is nominated for his first Grammy this year.

The details

The 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony will take place on the afternoon of the main Grammy telecast, honoring many of the Grammy categories not featured during the primetime broadcast. As host, Criss will guide viewers through the pre-show event, which includes live performances and the presentation of approximately 70 Grammy Awards.

  • The 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony will take place on the afternoon of the main Grammy telecast.

The players

Darren Criss

A first-time Grammy nominee and acclaimed actor and musician who will host the 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be hosting the Grammy Premiere Ceremony and kicking off Music's Biggest Day. As a first-time nominee, I'm thrilled to be a part of this celebration of musical excellence.”

— Darren Criss (Business Wire)

What’s next

The main 2026 Grammy Awards telecast will take place later the same evening following the Premiere Ceremony.

The takeaway

Darren Criss' selection as host of the 2026 Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony underscores his growing stature in the music industry, as he prepares to make his Grammy debut as a first-time nominee.