May 14, 2025: Music legend Janet Jackson will be honored with the Icon Award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), recognizing her lasting influence on the global music scene and her immense cultural impact. The announcement marks a major highlight of this year’s show, which will be broadcast live on Memorial Day, May 26.
In a moment that is already generating buzz, Jackson is set to deliver her first televised performance in seven years, live from the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Her return to the AMA stage is anticipated to be a standout moment of the ceremony.
This year’s AMAs will also shine a spotlight on U.S. troops and veterans, featuring tributes, performances, and stories from active-duty military members and veterans. A special honor will also be presented to a notable figure who has made meaningful contributions to the veteran community. The initiative is a collaboration with the Easy Day Foundation, a Las Vegas-based nonprofit that supports veterans transitioning to civilian life.
Jennifer Lopez will host the 2025 edition of the awards, marking her second time in the role after first hosting in 2015. A three-time AMA winner herself, Lopez has graced the AMA stage over ten times and continues to be a staple of the ceremony.
The event will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ in the United States. It is produced by Dick Clark Productions, a subsidiary of Penske Media Eldridge.