Queen Latifah to Host the 2026 American Music Awards

The rapper-actress will emcee the ceremony set to take place on Memorial Day from Las Vegas.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:41pm

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An extreme close-up of shimmering sequins and shattered glass reflecting dramatic studio lighting, evoking the glitz and excitement of a major awards show.The vibrant energy and high-fashion glamour of the American Music Awards will be on full display as Queen Latifah takes the stage as host.Las Vegas Today

Queen Latifah, the Grammy- and Emmy-winning musician, actress and producer, is set to host the 52nd edition of the American Music Awards in 2026. The awards show will take place on Memorial Day from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

Queen Latifah is a trailblazing hip-hop artist who has successfully transitioned into acting and producing in recent years. Her hosting of the AMAs, one of the biggest music awards shows, will bring her unique star power and connection to both fans and fellow artists.

The details

Latifah, who previously served as co-host of the AMAs in 1995 and has performed on the show multiple times, said she is 'so excited to return to the American Music Awards stage to host this year.' The awards show will honor 'the most influential artists and songs of today' based on fan interactions reflected on the Billboard charts.

  • The 52nd annual American Music Awards are set to air live on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026.
  • Nominations for the 2026 AMAs will be announced on April 14, 2026.

The players

Queen Latifah

A Grammy- and Emmy-winning musician, actress and producer who is set to host the 2026 American Music Awards.

Jay Penske

CEO of Dick Clark Productions and chairman/CEO of Penske Media Corporation, which owns the American Music Awards.

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What they’re saying

“I am so excited to return to the American Music Awards stage to host this year. It's been an incredible year for music and there is no better place to celebrate than in Vegas.”

— Queen Latifah

“We're thrilled to welcome Queen Latifah back as host of the American Music Awards. A true powerhouse and trailblazer, she brings a dynamic presence and deep connection to both fans and fellow artists, making her the perfect choice to lead a night celebrating the biggest names and most defining moments in music.”

— Jay Penske, CEO of Dick Clark Productions and chairman/CEO of Penske Media Corporation

What’s next

Nominations for the 2026 AMAs will be announced on April 14, 2026, ahead of the ceremony taking place on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026.

The takeaway

Queen Latifah's hosting of the 2026 American Music Awards will bring her unique star power and connection to both fans and fellow artists to one of the biggest music awards shows, further cementing her status as a trailblazing hip-hop artist who has successfully transitioned into acting and producing.