Jennifer Lopez is ready to return to the American Music Awards as host and performer. The Puerto Rican star will host this year’s awards ceremony, which will be broadcast live from Las Vegas on Monday, May 26, Memorial Day in the United States, on CBS and the streaming service Paramount+. Lopez previously hosted the AMAs in 2015, when she opened the show with “Waiting for Tonight,” followed by a dance medley of the year’s 14 biggest hits.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer Lopez as the host of the American Music Awards,” said Jay Penske, CEO of Dick Clark Productions, in a statement. “Jennifer’s incredible talent and unmatched stage presence make her the perfect host for the show. We know she will bring her unique energy to this official celebration that marks the start of summer.”
Lopez hinted at her return as host on the American Music Awards 50th Anniversary Special broadcast last fall on CBS, one of the most-watched entertainment specials of the year. The singer has performed at the AMAs more than 10 times. She has also won three American Music Awards: Favorite Female Pop/Rock Artist in 2003 and Favorite Latin Artist in 2007 and 2011. In February 2001, Lopez became the only female artist to have the No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 (J.Lo) and the No. 1 movie at the U.S. box office (The Wedding Planner) at the same time.
This will be the first regular broadcast of the American Music Awards in two and a half years, since the November 2022 show hosted by comedian Wayne Brady. It will also be the first time the AMAs are broadcast on CBS. The show aired on ABC from 1974 to 2022.
In addition, it will be the first time the event is held on Memorial Day. The plan is for the show to air every year on this national holiday to honor U.S. troops and veterans, as well as celebrate the top music stars of the year. The show aired in January or February every year from 1974 to 2003, and then in October or November from 2003 to 2022.
The legendary producer Dick Clark created the event, whose winners are determined by fan votes. The American Music Awards have become one of the most prestigious music awards shows, with past hosts including Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé. With Jennifer Lopez as host, this year’s show is sure to be a must-see event for music fans around the world.