American Music Awards 2026: how to watch the 52nd ceremony live and online

American Music Awards 2026: everything you need to know

The American Music Awards 2026 return for their 52nd edition on Monday, May 25, airing live on CBS at 8:00 p.m. EST / 5:00 p.m. PST. According to Billboard, the ceremony is hosted by Queen Latifah and takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Whether you have cable or not, there are several ways to tune in.

Who is nominated

Taylor Swift leads all nominees with eight nominations for the 52nd AMAs. Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, sombr, and Sabrina Carpenter follow closely behind with seven nominations each.

Performers and special guests

The stage will feature a wide mix of acts. Confirmed performers include Karol G, KATSEYE, sombr, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor, Billy Idol, Hootie and the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, and The Pussycat Dolls with Busta Rhymes. BTS is also confirmed for a special appearance, fresh off their Billboard Hot 100 number-one debut with "Swim."

How to watch the AMAs online for free

If you do not have a cable subscription, several streaming options carry CBS live:

• DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial and includes CBS in its MyNews package, starting at $34.99 per month for the first two months.
• Paramount+ Premium ($13.99 per month) streams local CBS stations live. The lower-tier Essentials plan does not support the live broadcast, though any Paramount+ plan can stream the show on demand the day after.
• Fubo carries CBS on its Pro plan, currently $48.99 for the first month, also with a five-day free trial.
• Hulu + Live TV includes CBS and starts at $89.99 per month, with access to Disney+ and ESPN Unlimited bundled in.

The American Music Awards are produced by Dick Clark Productions, owned by Penske Media Eldridge, which also owns Billboard's parent company Penske Media.