What word comes to mind when you think of the legendary Janet Jackson? Apparently, it’s “icon.” The powerhouse performer and undeniable talent has been the recipient of many awards befitting of the title. She was named the inaugural MTV Icon in 2001, given the first (and so far only) BET Ultimate Icon Award in 2015, was bestowed with the Billboard Icon Award in 2018 and named the MTV EMA Global Icon that same year. Now she’s set to add yet another iconic award to her mantel this month when the American Music Awards will present her with their very own ICON Award during this year’s ceremony.
Taking place on Memorial Day, the American Music Awards will crown Janet the third recipient of the honor — placing her in the company of Lionel Richie and Rihanna — as they celebrate her award-winning career. It will be a fitting honor as the singer continues celebrating the 50th anniversary of her entering show business as a child star. Making things even more special is that Jackson will be performing live on television for the first time in seven years.
Janet’s honor is just one of the many highlights to come from the 2025 American Music Awards. Jennifer Lopez is set to be both host and one of the evening’s performers, with Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, rising stars Benson Boone and Renee Rapp, and a host of others set to take the stage as the year’s biggest music stars are honored.
We know what we’ll be watching when the American Music Awards airs on Monday, May 26th on CBS and streams on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. To help you prepare for what’s sure to be yet another dynamic moment in her legendary career, watch Janet Jackson bring down the house at the 1987 American Music Awards with an electrifying performance of “Control” below.
