May 26 (THEWILL) — The 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) took place on Monday, May 25, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, with Queen Latifah hosting the ceremony.
South Korean boy band BTS won Artist of the Year, marking their second victory in the category after first winning in 2021.
The award show marked the group’s return to a major US stage following their military service hiatus.
The seven-member group also won Song of the Summer for “Swim” and Best Male K-pop Artist, completing a clean sweep of all the categories they were nominated in.
During their acceptance speech, BTS thanked their global fanbase, known as the Army, for their continued support.
The group beat artists including Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga to claim the night’s top prize.
Sabrina Carpenter also had a successful night, winning Album of the Year for “Man’s Best Friend”, along with Best Female Pop Artist and Best Pop Album.
Rising girl group Katseye won New Artist of the Year, as well as Best Music Video for “Gnarly” and Breakthrough Pop Artist.
The song “Golden” from “K-Pop Demon Hunters” won Song of the Year. EJAE and Rei Ami accepted the award and also won Best Vocal Performance and Best Pop Song.
Taylor Swift, who was not present at the ceremony, entered the night with eight nominations but did not win any awards.
Despite this, she remains the most-awarded artist in AMA history with 40 wins.
Other winners included Bruno Mars, Cardi B, Sombr, Zara Larsson, Shakira and Bad Bunny.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
