The 52nd American Music Awards delivered a massive, star-studded spectacle last night, May 25, 2026, broadcasting live to millions of fans globally. Hosted by the legendary Queen Latifah—returning to the hosting gig a full 31 years after her first stint in 1995—the evening was packed with breathtaking performances, emotional tributes, and major sweeps. Driven entirely by fan votes, the AMAs have always served as the ultimate barometer for global pop culture dominance. This year, K-pop royalty, rising indie stars, and pop princesses officially ruled the night.
Here is a definitive look at the biggest moments, the breakout stars, and the complete list of major winners from the unforgettable ceremony.
BTS Reclaims Their Crown
Returning to the award show stage for the first time in four years, global phenomenon BTS proved their undeniable staying power. The group kicked off the entire broadcast with a high-energy performance of “Hooligan” from their smash-hit album Arirang, sending the Las Vegas crowd into an absolute frenzy. The septet ultimately took home the night’s most coveted prize, Artist of the Year, cementing their legendary status. They also walked away with trophies for Best Male K-Pop Artist and Song of the Summer for their massive hit “SWIM.”
Sabrina Carpenter and KATSEYE Sweep the Board
The ladies of pop also enjoyed an incredibly dominant showing. Sabrina Carpenter continued her monumental year by taking home her very first AMA trophies, including the highly prestigious Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend. She also secured wins for Best Female Pop Artist and Best Pop Album.
Meanwhile, first-time nominees and breakout girl group KATSEYE made a massive splash on the scene. They secured the highly competitive New Artist of the Year award, alongside taking home Best Music Video for “Gnarly” and Breakthrough Pop Artist.
Rock, Indie, and Legacy Honors
In the rock and alternative space, 20-year-old indie breakout Sombr tied for the most wins of the entire night, securing three awards including Best Rock/Alternative Song for his hit “back to friends.”
The AMAs also took significant time to honor the trailblazers who permanently shaped the music industry. Rock icon Billy Idol was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, global Latin superstar Karol G was honored with the International Artist Award of Excellence, and country legend Darius Rucker received the Veterans Voice Award.
The 2026 AMA Major Winners List
If you missed the broadcast, here is a quick breakdown of who took home the biggest awards of the night:
| Category | Winner |
| Artist of the Year | BTS |
| New Artist of the Year | KATSEYE |
| Album of the Year | Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend |
| Song of the Year | The Singing Voices of HUNTR/X – “Golden” |
| Tour of the Year | Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour |
| Collaboration of the Year | PinkPantheress & Zara Larsson – “Stateside” |
| Song of the Summer | BTS – “SWIM” |
| Best Female Pop Artist | Sabrina Carpenter |
| Best Male Pop Artist | Justin Bieber |
| Best Female Hip-Hop Artist | Cardi B |
| Best Male Hip-Hop Artist | Kendrick Lamar |
| Best Female Latin Artist | Shakira |
| Best Male Latin Artist | Bad Bunny |
| Best Rock/Alternative Artist | Twenty One Pilots |
