From a special BTS appearance to a stacked performer lineup, here's everything to know before music's biggest fan-voted night.

The unofficial kickoff to summer is arriving with a heavy dose of nostalgia, fan-favorite artists, and one major K-pop moment. The 52nd Annual American Music Awards airs live on Monday, May 25 from Las Vegas.&nbsp;
This year's show marks a full-circle moment for host Queen Latifah, who returns to the AMAs stage three decades after co-hosting in 1995. And much like her original run, the night appears to be built around cross-generational moments, surprise appearances, and performances spanning every corner of music.
Fans can expect sets from Sombr, Teddy Swims, Twenty One Pilots, Maluma, Keith Urban, Riley Green, Katseye, and Hootie &amp; the Blowfish. Meanwhile, additional performances from Karol G, Billy Idol, New Kids on the Block, The Pussycat Dolls, alongside Busta Rhymes, Teyana Taylor, and Darius Rucker are set to add even more star power to the evening.&nbsp;
But perhaps the biggest talking point of the night is one simple phrase: special appearance by BTS. The group is set to make its first award-show appearance in four years, instantly sending fans into detective mode over what exactly that means. Whether it's a surprise stage moment, a full-group reunion, or something in between, details remain tightly under wraps. BTS is also entering the night with nominations, including Artist of the Year and Song of the Summer for "Swim," making their return feel even more significant.
In terms of awards, the competition is equally intense. Taylor Swift leads the field with eight nominations, while Sombr, Olivia Dean, Morgan Wallen, and Sabrina Carpenter follow closely behind.&nbsp;
There are also several major honors to watch. Billy Idol will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, Karol G is set to receive the International Artist Award of Excellence, and Darius Rucker will be honored with the Veterans Voice Award.&nbsp;
Between comeback appearances, longtime icons returning to the stage, and the possibility of a BTS surprise, Monday night's ceremony may end up being remembered less for who wins&mdash;and more for who shows up.

From left: V, Suga, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Jimin, and J-hope of BTS in November 2021. Getty Images.

What To Expect Ahead of the 2026 American Music Awards 

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What To Expect Ahead of the 2026 American Music Awards

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