The 52nd American Music Awards will honor Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Billy Idol with its Lifetime Achievement Award. Idol will deliver his first-ever performance on the AMAs stage and accept his honor during the Monday, May 25, 2026 awards show.
This year’s AMAs, hosted by Queen Latifah, will air live from the MGM Grand in Vegas on CBS and Paramount+ beginning at 5pm PT/8pm ET.
Per Dick Clark Productions and CBS, Idol is receiving the honor “in recognition of his incomparable career, body of work, and unparalleled contributions to music, honoring his lasting legacy and continued influence on generations of artists and fans. Idol’s distinctive career has impacted musicians and fans alike in the decades since he first emerged onto the scene.”
“Billy Idol is a true rock legend whose influence has transcended generations and genres. From his groundbreaking music to his electrifying stage presence, Billy has left an indelible mark on popular culture and the music industry,” stated executive producers Barry Adelman, EVP, Television, and Alexi Mazareas, SVP, Programming & Development, Dick Clark Productions. “We are thrilled to honor him with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 52nd American Music Awards and celebrate his legacy with what promises to be an unforgettable performance.”
Previously announced performers include KAROL G, Hootie & the Blowfish, KATSEYE, Keith Urban, Maluma, Riley Green, SOMBR, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor, and Twenty One Pilots.
Taylor Swift leads the 2026 AMAs nominations list with eight. Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter, and SOMBR each earned seven nominations. Voting is still open for this year’s Social Song of the Year and Tour of the Year at VoteAMAs.com.