Music

'The Fate of Ophelia' singer is the most-nominated artist at this year's AMAs.

The 2026 American Music Awards are almost here! 

The annual awards ceremony will take place Monday, May 25, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Hosted by Queen Latifah, the star-studded event will bring together some of the biggest names in popular music, including live performances by BTS, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor, Billy Idol, New Kids on the Block, and more. 

Taylor Swift is the most-nominated artist at the 2026 AMAs

Who will go home a winner at this year’s AMAs? Taylor Swift leads the pack with eight nominations, followed by Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter, and SOMBR with seven each. But there’s no guarantee that “The Fate of Ophelia” singer will be there to accept her trophy if she does win Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Best Music Video, or another award. 

In 2025, Swift received six nominations at the AMAs. But she didn’t bother to show up for the ceremony. That might have been for the best, as she was shut out in every category – the first time she went home empty-handed since 2007. (She’s won 40 AMAs over the course of her career.) 

Last year, Swift was facing stiff competition from artists like Billie Eilish, who beat her out in categories like Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Best Touring Artist. She may fare better this year. Betting site Kalshi has her as the favorite several categories, including Best Music Video and Song of the Year. 

The “Karma” singer may have also skipped last year’s AMAs because she was trying to avoid the spotlight. Sources said she didn’t want to face questions regarding her friend Blake Lively’s legal battle with Justin Baldoni. With that drama largely resolved, Swift might be more willing to walk the red carpet. Or, with her wedding to Travis Kelce on the horizon, she might decide to keep things low-key and stay at home. 

The 52^nd American Music Awards air Monday, May 25 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on the CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers will be able to stream live via their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers can watch the ceremony on-demand the day after it airs.

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