iHeartMedia

“Giggly Squad” with hosts Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo takes home coveted Podcast of the Year Award

Hosted by Ego Nwodim, the event also included Will Ferrell and special guest presenters Eric Andre, Jennie Garth, Lele Pons, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, Iliza Shlesinger, Rider Strong and more

Jay Shetty, Terry Gross and Hrishikesh Hirway honored with Icon Awards

NEW YORK AND AUSTIN – March 16, 2026 – Monday night, the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards Live at SXSW brought together the most influential names in podcasting to honor the most entertaining and innovative podcasts of 2025, celebrating the incredible talent and wide variety of leaders across the podcasting industry live in Austin, Texas at ACL Live at the Moody Theater. The show was hosted by comedian Ego Nwodim and streamed live exclusively on VEEPS. The event also broadcasted on select iHeartMedia radio stations at 11p.m. local time and was available live on the iHeartRadio app.

The night featured a variety of appearances by award nominees, celebrity presenters and special guests including Podcast of the Year winners Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, presenters Clayton Echard, Eric Andre, Iliza Shlesinger, Jennie Garth, Jonathan Goldstein, Juju Green, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, Lele Pons, Rider Strong among others, as well as TikTok creators Caroline Vazzana, Clifford Taylor IV and Timothy Martin. Special guests included Andrea Gunning, Chris Wylde, DJ Dramos, Elyse Myers, Laurie Santos and many nominees.

In addition to the fan-voted and category awards, iHeartMedia presented three Icon Awards – the Social Impact Award to Jay Shetty, the Audible Audio Pioneer Award to Terry Gross and the Innovator Award to Hrishikesh Hirway – honoring individuals who have made groundbreaking contributions to the podcasting medium.

The 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards event highlights include:

• Will Ferrell kicked off the show in full Team USA speed skating gear as he joked to the crowd full of a “few of his peers and many of his admirers” that he almost made the team for the 2026 Winter Olympics. He then introduced host Ego Nwodim.
• Host Ego Nwodim, who was also nominated in the Best Emerging category for her podcast “Thanks Dad,” welcomed the audience and talked about the importance of podcasts while reminding the audio-savvy audience not to peak the mics.
• “My Favorite Murder” hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark presented the Best Travel Award to “Women Who Travel.” Host Lale Arikoglu thanked the women who shared their stories.
• Lele Pons, host of the upcoming “Suite 305” podcast, presented the Best Emerging podcast to “Smart Girl Dumb Questions with Nayeema Raza.”
• “Broken Record” host Justin Richmond presented the 2026 Social Impact Award to Jay Shetty and his “On Purpose” podcast. Shetty accepted the award via video message.
• Jennie Garth, host of “I Choose Me,” celebrated the shows nominated for Best TV & Film for keeping us all engaged before presenting the award to “Watch What Crappens.” Hosts Ronnie Karam and Ben Mandelker accepted the award by first being excited to talk to Garth and thanking Bravo for providing plenty of TV to escape into.
• Host Ego Nwodim pitched her own True Crime podcast to uncover the missing person sitting in an empty chair, delighting the audience with her on-the-spot trailer for the show.
• Rider Strong presented Best Crime to the “Wisecrack” team who recounted the six-episode show’s 10-year journey to being made and celebrated the balance between light and darkness.
• Eric Andre joked about SXSW hangover and the founding of podcasting before presenting Best Comedy Award to “Good Hang with Amy Poehler.” Poehler accepted via video message and thanked her listeners, teasing her next episode with Viola Davis.
• Juju Green presented the Innovator Award to Hrishikesh Hirway who recounted the beginnings of “Song Exploder” and his want to dive into every beat of creating the music we hear.
• “Love Trapped” hosts Clayton Echard and Stephani Young presented Best Advice/Inspirational Award to “Thanks For Asking with Nora McInerny,” who offered some advice to her fellow nominees Michelle Obama, Chrissy Teigen and Jay Shetty to “stick to it.”
• TikTok creators and podcast hosts Clifford Taylor IV and Timothy Martin presented Best Business & Finance to “The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett.”
• Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo took the stage to award the Best Ensemble Award presented by Gatorade Lower Sugar to “The Basement Yard.” Hosts Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez accepted the award by shouting out how they’ve been friends since they were four and get to live their comedy dreams together.
• Jonathan Goldstein presented the Audible Audio Pioneer Icon Award to “Fresh Air” host Terry Gross, who accepted her award via video message. She recounted her beginnings as a volunteer at her college radio station and gaining her skills by broadcasting in front of nearly no audience.
• TikTok creator Caroline Vazzana presented Best News to “The MeidasTouch Podcast.” Hosts and brothers Ben, Brett and Jordy Meiselas thanked their wives and shouted out podcasts with the courage to call out injustice.
• Iliza Shlesinger presented Podcast of the Year to Giggly Squad hosts Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo. Hannah joked how Paige first said no to their podcast because she “has a face for television” before Paige thanked their listeners for always tuning in.

The full list of 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards winners are:

PODCAST OF THE YEAR:

Giggly Squad

Best Business & Finance:

The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett

Best Comedy:

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Best Crime:

Wisecrack

Best Wellness & Fitness:

The Mel Robbins Podcast

Best News:

The MeidasTouch Podcast

Best Overall Ensemble Presented by Gatorade Lower Sugar:

The Basement Yard

Best TV & Film:

Watch What Crappens 

Best Travel:

Women Who Travel

Best Emerging:

Smart Girl Dumb Questions with Nayeema Raza

Best Pop Culture:

Call Her Daddy

Best Food:

Eating While Broke

Best History:

The Rest Is History

Best Kids & Family:

Circle Round

Best Music

All Songs Considered

Best Fiction:

Murder at the Patel Motel

Best Sports:

Pardon My Take

Best Science:

Hidden Brain

Best Technology:

Acquired

Best Ad Read:

My Brother, My Brother and Me

Best Overall Host:

Caleb Hearon

Best Political:

Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

Best Spanish Language:

Chente Ydrach

Best Advice / Inspirational Presented by She Rises Studios

Thanks For Asking

Best Beauty & Fashion:

Naked Beauty

Best Spirituality & Religion:

Elevation with Steven Furtick

Best Branded Podcast:

The Unshakeables (Chase for Business)

Best International:

Shameless (Australia)

Proud partners of this year’s iHeartPodcast Awards include Audible, Avocados from Mexico, Gatorade Lower Sugar and She Rises Studios. 

Executive producers for the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards are John Sykes, Tom Poleman, Conal Byrne and Bart Peters for iHeartMedia. 

The 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards is part of iHeartMedia’s roster of nationally recognized events including the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the iHeartRadio Music Festival, the nationwide iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Concert Tour, iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina, iHeartCountry Festival and iHeartRadio ALTer Ego.

For more information on the iHeartPodcast Awards, visit the website here.

To access photos and b-roll from the event, please use the links below:

• Red Carpet/Winners Walk photos: HERE (Credit Mat Hayward for iHeartMedia)
• Show photos: HERE (Credit Ismael Quintanilla III for iHeartMedia)
• B-roll: HERE

About SXSW

SXSW dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of tech, film and television, music, education, and culture. An essential destination for global professionals, the annual March event features sessions, music, and comedy showcases, film and television screenings, exhibitions, professional development, and a variety of opportunities to meet and connect with people. SXSW proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and individuals come together. SXSW 2025 will take place March 7–15 in Austin. Learn more at sxsw.com.

TNA Wrestling and iHeartMedia today announced a new multi-platform collaboration that will integrate iHeartMedia across TNA’s premium live events, weekly television programming, digital platforms and fan experiences, while tapping into iHeartMedia’s expansive nationwide audio network to engage fans across broadcast, live events, and digital media in new and dynamic ways..

As part of the agreement, iHeartMedia will serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the TNA Wrestling Pay-Per-View Pre-Show for all remaining 2026 premium live events. The integration will feature prominent brand visibility across broadcast graphics, in-arena announcements and event marketing tied to TNA’s major premium live events throughout the year.

iHeartMedia will also be the Presenting Sponsor of the TNA Wrestling Dream Seats, the premium front-row seating program at TNA live events. The sponsorship will include branded seating elements, digital ticket integrations, in-arena announcements and exclusive fan engagement opportunities throughout the year.

On TNA’s flagship weekly television program, Thursday Night iMPACT!, airing nationally on AMC, and streaming on AMC+ in the U.S., and worldwide on TNA+, iHeartMedia will receive premium broadcast integration including sponsorship of the LED Walkout Ramp, one of the most visually recognizable elements of TNA’s live events and television presentations.

Additional elements of the collaboration include:

• In-venue commercial inventory and guardrail branding at TNA live events
• Digital integrations across TNA’s website and streaming platforms
• Social media collaboration and digital storytelling
• Hospitality and VIP fan experience opportunities tied to major events throughout 2026

Through its national network of radio stations, podcasts and streaming platforms, iHeartMedia will collaborate with TNA Wrestling to amplify key events, premium live broadcasts and major moments throughout the year, connecting fans with the action both inside and outside the ring.

“We are excited to welcome iHeartMedia as a national partner for TNA Wrestling,” said Carlos Silva, President of TNA Wrestling. “Their ability to connect with audiences across radio, podcasts and digital platforms makes them an ideal partner as we continue to expand our reach and bring the energy of TNA to fans across the country.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with TNA Wrestling and help bring the excitement of the brand to listeners nationwide,” said Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships. “Through the power of iHeartMedia’s audio platforms and personalities, we look forward to connecting fans with TNA’s athletes, events and stories in new and engaging ways.”

The partnership will launch April 11 at Rebellion, TNA Wrestling’s major pay-per-view event at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, and will continue with expanded activations throughout the year, including the long-running Slammiversary event this summer and additional premium live events.

Select events may also feature appearances from iHeartRadio personalities and musical guests as part of live fan activations.

About TNA Wrestling:

A subsidiary of Anthem Sports & Entertainment Inc. and a division of Anthem Sports Group, Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling® is one of the world's top wrestling brands, producing over 200 hours of original content annually and televised in 200 countries including AMC in the United States. Founded in 2002, TNA Wrestling’s deep library of premium content is streamed across the world on key OTT platforms including Pluto TV, Roku SamsungTV Plus and its own on-demand subscription service TNA+©. TNA Wrestling has a powerful social media presence with over 10 million engaged followers across all major services. Ancillary businesses include live events, merchandise, licensing, and sponsorship.

NEW YORK – March 13, 2026 – iHeartMedia recently highlighted new music and artists alike with special programming, including new ‘On The Verge’ artists and World Premiere debuts. 

Earlier this year, iHeartMedia named Freya Skye the latest ‘On The Verge’ CHR artist with her single “Silent Treatment.” iHeartMedia’s ‘On The Verge’ program helps build awareness for up-and-coming artists through its radio airplay and historically, all ‘On The Verge’ artists have charted in the top 30, with more than half landing in the top 10 and over a third claiming the No. 1 chart slot. 

This week, legendary rock band Eagles’ “Carol” had a World Premiere debut on March 10 across all iHeartRadio Classic Hits stations; Carly Pearce and Riley Green’s “If I Don’t Leave I’m Gonna Stay” had a World Premiere debut on March 12 across all iHeartCountry stations; and Kane Brown’s “Woman” had a World Premiere debut on March 13 across all iHeartCountry stations. 

For the latest news, music fans can download the iHeartRadio app; follow iHeartRadio on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, Facebook and YouTube; and visit iHeartRadio.com.

The event will also broadcast on select iHeartMedia radio stations across the country at 11 p.m. local time

WHAT: The 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards will take place on Monday, March 16 at ACL Live at the Moody Theater in Austin, TX and air live and free-to-view on streaming platform, VEEPS. The event will span all genres of podcasts including Comedy, Crime, Sports, News, Business, Pop Culture, Food and more, with winners in each category determined by a panel of industry leaders, creatives and visionaries. Today, iHeartMedia reveals its list of presenters.

WHO: Actress, comedian and host of the “Thanks Dad” podcast, Ego Nwodim, will emcee this year’s iHeartPodcast Awards, actor and comedian Will Ferrell will open the show and Holly Frey, host of “Stuff You Missed in History Class,” will be the winners correspondent. The event will also feature in-show music from DJ Obscene. 

Presenters for the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards will include Clayton Echard, Eric Andre, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, Iliza Schlesinger, Jennie Garth, Jonathan Goldstein, Juju Green, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, Lele Pons, Rider Strong and others as well as TikTok creators Caroline Vazzana, Clifford Taylor IV and Tim Martin.

Special guests will include Andrea Gunning, Chris Wylde, DJ Dramos, Elyse Myers, Laurie Santos and an array of nominees.

The event will once again be open to select SXSW badge holders. A full list of the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards categories and nominees can be found here.

WHEN: Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. CT                          

WHERE: ACL Live at the Moody Theater (310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701)

Streaming live exclusively on VEEPS at veeps.events/iheartpodcastawards.

The event will also broadcast on select iHeartMedia radio stations at 11p.m. local time and available on the iHeartRadio app.

MORE: Executive producers for the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards are John Sykes, Tom Poleman, Conal Byrne and Bart Peters for iHeartMedia.

Proud sponsors of the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards include Audible, Avocados from Mexico, Gatorade Lower Sugar and She Rises Studios. For more information visit here.

The festival’s highly anticipated and thought-provoking panel discussions will feature today’s top voices in tech, finance and entertainment including Tika Sumpter, KevOnStage, Cliff Worley, Carla Wilmaris, Bridget Todd, Carlos King, Ian Dunlap and more

Tickets are available now at blackeffect.com/podcastfestival

WHAT: iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God’s Black Effect Podcast Network today announced that hit shows “Drink Champs,” “Keep it Positive, Sweetie,” hosted by Crystal Renee Hayslett from Tyler Perry’s Sistas and “Reality with the King” will join the lineup for the Fourth Annual Black Effect Podcast Festival Presented by State Farm at Pullman Yards in Atlanta on April 25. 

WHO: Hosted by Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy of The Breakfast Club with Loren LoRosa, the fourth annual festival will feature live podcast tapings from “The Don't Call Me White Girl Show,” “Club 520 Podcast,”“Grits and Eggs Podcast,” “Reality With The King,” “Keep It Positive, Sweetie,” hosted by Crystal Renee Hayslett from Tyler Perry’s Sistas and “Drink Champs.” The day-long event will also feature thought-provoking and informative panel discussions including “AI: The Evolution and The Future,” “Audio and Media Development,” featuring top voices in tech, finance and entertainment including Tika Sumpter, KevOnStage, Cliff Worley, Carla Wilmaris, Bridget Todd, Carlos King and more and more.

WHEN: Saturday, April 25 at 11am

WHERE: Pullman Yards - 225 Rogers St NE, Atlanta, GA 30317

MORE: Tickets are now available at blackeffect.com/podcastfestival

The event will also feature engaging activities for attendees including the wildly popular Pitch Your Podcast Booth and The Black Effect Marketplace, powered by Shopify, showcasing merchandise from Black-owned businesses, local food trucks and more. 

The Black Effect Podcast Festival is presented by State Farm.

The Black Effect Podcast Network is the leading platform for Black creators to raise their voices and be heard in the podcast space. It brings together the most influential and trusted voices in black culture for stimulating conversations around social justice, pop culture, sports, mental health, news, comedy and more. Launched in September 2020, The Black Effect Podcast Network has since debuted 60+ shows, with 47 live shows featuring a luminous roster of marquee talent and culture-shifting voices committed to enlightening, educating and entertaining audiences, curated by Charlamagne Tha God himself.

About The Black Effect Podcast Network

The Black Effect Podcast Network is a transformative network founded by renowned cultural architect, executive producer, bestselling author, and media mogul Charlamagne Tha God in a historic joint venture with the world’s number one commercial podcast publisher, iHeartMedia. Charlamagne and iHeartMedia created the groundbreaking first-ever Black Effect Podcast Network, celebrating the essential Black culture-shapers on the planet—in education, entertainment, politics, pop culture, and sports. The Black Effect Podcast Network gives rise to emerging and established content creators and storytellers whose perspectives and creative visions have been marginalized and overlooked while serving an audience that has been underserved. The Black Effect Podcast Network helps its partners define their place in podcast culture through influence, ideas, and experiences that engage, inspire, inform, and empower.

Kicking off Live at SXSW on March 13, TikTok Radio from iHeart will be available on the iHeartRadio app and across 28 broadcast stations throughout the country, including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, Miami and more

Launch also spotlights the first wave of TikTok creators from the TikTok Podcast Network slate

New York, NY – March 12, 2026 – iHeartMedia and TikTok today announced the launch of TikTok Radio from iHeart, featuring the biggest music hits on the radio combined with the creators, trends, music and cultural moments on TikTok that are driving what’s next – all in one place. The fast-paced station is launching tomorrow, March 13, on the free iHeartRadio app and on 28 broadcast stations across the country in cities including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, Miami and more.

Introducing TikTok Radio from iHeart

TikTok is the go-to platform where culture, entertainment and music collide and iHeart will extend that experience beyond the For You Feed with TikTok Radio. The new station will blend TikTok’s discovery engine and cultural impact with iHeart’s programming expertise and trusted personalities to give fans a new way to listen to their favorite artists' full tracks while diving deeper into the stories, trends and moments that turned them into a cultural phenomenon.

The audio programming blends today’s hottest music with real-time conversation, guiding listeners through what’s breaking now – from rising creators to new hits, throwback rediscoveries, podcast spotlights and trending topics. TikTok Radio will feature the following signature segments:

• Behind-the-Charts – A countdown of the 10 biggest songs of the week on TikTok, looking at the story and artist behind the music.
• Hacks on the :20s – Trending life hacks for every area of your life, heard every hour on the :20s.
• Hot Takes -– Lighthearted hot takes about everyday topics in lifestyle and culture.
• New Music Fridays – A highlight of the week's new releases, airing throughout the day on Fridays.
• On The Verge ­– Featured music from artists On the Verge of breaking into the charts.

TikTok Radio from iHeart goes live for the first time on March 13 from the iHeartPodcasts Hotel at SXSW, broadcasting from Austin with a rotating lineup of iHeart and TikTok creators behind the mic. Live from the booth at the iHeartPodcasts Hotel, the broadcast will blend onsite interviews, surprise segments and real time crowd reactions from SXSW, transforming the space into an IRL For You Feed powered by the new station. Content captured throughout the event will be featured across iHeart channels, creator platforms and brand partners.

The station’s regularly featured host line-up will include iHeart personalities like:

• Kayla Thomas @kayla_thomas40 (102.7 KIIS FM LA) 12 – 5 a.m.
• Ashlee Young @ashleeonair (Houston) 5 – 10 a.m.
• Jon Comouche @comouche (104.3 MYfm LA) 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Becky Mits @beckymits (Star 94.1 San Diego) 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Angelina Narvaez @angelinaonair (Wild 94.9 San Francisco) 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.

The station kicks off live at SXSW at 9 p.m. CT, with TikTok creators stopping by throughout the weekend, including Grace Wells (@gracewellsphoto), Madison Tevlin (@madisontevlin), Eric Sedeño (@ricotaquito), Bree Stephens (@thewatchedlist) and more.

Listeners can follow @tiktokradio on TikTok for updates to the lineup later this month.

“We couldn’t be more excited to launch TikTok Radio and introduce our inaugural slate of hosts for the TikTok Podcast Network,” said Dan Page, Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships, TikTok. “At TikTok, empowering creators to turn their passions into lasting careers is core to everything we do, and this partnership unlocks powerful new opportunities for them to expand their voices across radio, podcasts and live moments, while connecting with fans in new ways.”

Meet the First Creators Leading the TikTok Podcast Network

As part of today’s announcement, iHeartMedia and TikTok are also revealing the first wave of TikTok creators from the TikTok Podcast Network slate. These podcasts will be launching in the coming months:

• Suite 305 with Lele Pons ­– Hosted by multihyphenate and social media star Lele Pons (@lelepons) listeners will step into the world’s most unfiltered slumber party. Suite 305 is where the people who shape culture finally get to be themselves.
• Caroline’s Closet – Hosted by fashion editor, author and personality Caroline Vazzana (@cvazzana), Caroline is drawing back the curtain on the fashion industry and giving listeners a front row seat.
• Sports Slice – Hosted by Tim Martin (@timbosliceoflife12), Sports Slice is where the biggest stories in sports get cut down and served with loud takes, real conversations, and absolutely no safe picks.
• The Clifford Show – Hosted by former college football player turned viral sports creator Clifford Taylor IV (@clifford), The Clifford Show is your VIP pass to the hustle and grind of making it in sports and in media.
• The Set List with Carter Gregory – Hosted by media personality, music executive, host and cultural tastemaker Carter Gregory (@thecarterb), The Set List takes listeners into the backstage spaces where culture is being created for intimate conversations with top artists and creatives, giving fans new insight into the creative DNA behind their work.

TikTok is a place where audiences come to discover voices, ideas and stories they love. This partnership is the next step in TikTok's commitment to actively invest in creators who are raising the bar and creating high-quality content, including formats like podcasts, and unlocking new opportunities that extend on and off platform.

These creators – along with clips, highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from their new podcasts – will also be featured prominently across TikTok Radio beginning March 13 at SXSW, giving listeners new ways to discover and engage with their favorite voices.

The TikTok Podcast Network will launch in partnership with GEICO as the network's exclusive launch partner, marking a new opportunity for brands to connect with audiences through creator-led podcast content.

“This next chapter of our multiplatform partnership with TikTok unlocks the full power of both ecosystems – creators, broadcast radio, podcasts, live moments and social – all working together in real time,” said Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer for iHeartMedia. “This station is built to feel like a living, breathing For You Feed­– a place where creators, music fans and our on-air talent collide in real time to shape what’s next in culture. From live broadcasts at SXSW to creator-led podcasts and trend driven radio programming, we’re merging the best of our platforms to amplify creators, elevate emerging voices and deliver fans a 360 degree experience across audio, video and live moments.”

Additional details about the TikTok Podcast Network – including expanded show concepts, premiere dates, trailers and future creator announcements – will be shared in the coming months. As the partnership continues to evolve, TikTok and iHeartMedia remain focused on building new opportunities for creators to extend their voices across audio, video and live experiences, while giving fans even more ways to discover and connect with the culture they love.

About TikTok

TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. TikTok's global headquarters are in Los Angeles and Singapore, and its offices include New York, London, Dublin, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Jakarta, Seoul and Tokyo.

Ludacris to host this year’s award show and also receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Landmark Award

Miley Cyrus to be honored with the 2026 iHeartRadio Innovator Award

Alex Warren to receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award

NEW YORK- March 11, 2026- iHeartMedia and FOX Entertainment today announced that the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards will feature performances by Alex Warren, Lainey Wilson, Ludacris, RAYE, and performing for the first time together TLC, Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue. Ludacris will host the annual event and also receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Landmark Award. Additionally, Miley Cyrus will be honored with the 2026 iHeartRadio Innovator Award and Alex Warren will receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award. The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards airs LIVE from Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Thursday, March 26 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET live / PT tape-delayed) on FOX and will also be heard on iHeartRadio stations nationwide and on the iHeartRadio app.

In addition to hosting and performing, Ludacris will receive the 2026 iHeartRadio Landmark Award, which honors artists whose portfolio has shaped culture across multiple decades. A pioneering force in hip‑hop, Ludacris broke through with his major label debut album Back for the First Time (2000) which established him as a mainstream star. He went on to deliver multi‑platinum albums including Word of Mouf (2001), Chicken‑n‑Beer (2003) and The Red Light District (2004), solidifying his place as one of the defining artists of the 2000s. Over the course of his career, he has earned three Grammy Awards and expanded his cultural impact through acclaimed acting roles, including his long‑running role as Tej Parker in the Fast & Furious franchise. With 17 million albums sold in the U.S. and 24 million records sold worldwide, Ludacris remains one of hip‑hop’s most successful and influential artists. This performance also marks a celebratory moment as he launches into his next chapter of worldwide touring.

“I’m excited to return as host of the iHeartRadio Music Awards to celebrate and perform alongside some of the best in the industry,” said Ludacris. “It’s going to be a night with special performances and surprise moments fans are going to love.”

Each year the iHeartRadio Innovator Award is presented to an artist who has impacted both music and global culture throughout their career, and this year’s recipient is Miley Cyrus. From her groundbreaking role 20 years ago in Hannah Montana, a cultural phenomenon that continues to shape and inspire generations, to her evolution into one of the most fearless, dynamic and influential voices in music today, Miley’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. Beyond her artistry, Miley’s humanitarian work has made a profound impact. Through the Miley Cyrus Foundation, and the launch of Happy Hippie, she has been a powerful advocate for homeless and at‑risk youth, especially teens facing housing insecurity. Her efforts have helped amplify vulnerable voices, provide essential resources and build community for young people who need it most. Past recipients of the iHeartRadio Innovator Award include Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Pharrell Williams, Bruno Mars, U2, Alicia Keys and Lady Gaga.

Alex Warren will be honored with the 2026 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award, celebrating his remarkable rise and record‑shattering achievements. Over the past year, Alex has emerged as one of the most impactful new voices in pop music, with his emotional songwriting and powerful performances resonating across generations. His success reached historic heights as he shattered all‑time Mediabase chart records, spending 16 weeks at No.1 on Top 40 and 29 weeks at No.1 on Hot AC, cementing his place among the most dominant radio artists of the modern era. Alex has built a deeply loyal fanbase, and his influence continues to grow as he uses his platform to foster community, connection and emotional openness among fans. This award recognizes Alex’s extraordinary trajectory, undeniable talent and the uniquely powerful bond he’s created with listeners around the world.

The 13th annual iHeartRadio Music Awards will celebrate the most-played artists and songs on iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app throughout 2025, while also offering a preview of the upcoming hits of 2026. The show will feature award presentations in multiple categories, live performances from the biggest artists in music, surprise guests and collaborations, and will showcase the stories of the winning artists’ road to No.1.

Artists receiving several nominations include Alex Warren, Bad Bunny, Benson Boone, BLACKPINK, Chris Brown, Ed Sheeran, Ella Langley, GloRilla, Grupo Frontera, HUNTR/X: EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, REI AMI, Jelly Roll, JENNIE, j-hope, KATSEYE, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Leon Thomas, Linkin Park, LISA, Mariah the Scientist, MOLIY, Morgan Wallen, Myles Smith, RAYE, ROSÉ, Sabrina Carpenter, Shinedown, sombr, SZA, Tate McRae, Taylor Swift, Twenty One Pilots and Zara Larsson. 

In addition to paying tribute to music and artists, the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards will again celebrate the fans, giving iHeartRadio listeners the opportunity to decide winners in several new and established categories. Fan voting will determine this year’s Favorite Broadway Debut, Favorite TikTok Dance, Favorite Debut Album, Best Lyrics, Best Music Video, Favorite On Screen, Favorite Tour Photographer, Favorite Soundtrack, Favorite Tour Style, Favorite Tour Tradition and Favorite K-pop Collab. Social voting will close on March 19 at 11:59 p.m. PT for all categories. Fans can vote by visiting iHeartRadio.com/awards.

Additional categories include Label of the Year and individual winners for Album of the Year in music’s biggest genres, including pop, country, alternative, rock, dance, hip-hop, R&B, Latin and regional Mexican formats.

For a full list of categories, visit iHeartRadio.com/awards.

Executive producers for the iHeartRadio Music Awards are Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannaé Rouzan-Clay for Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE); John Sykes, Tom Poleman and Bart Peters for iHeartMedia; and FOX Entertainment Studios.

Proud partners of this year’s event include She Rises Studios, with more to be announced.

Artists and/or events subject to change or cancellation without notice. 

About FOX Entertainment

With a legacy spanning nearly 40 years, FOX Entertainment is one of the world’s most recognizable media brands and a prolific content producer across its iconic broadcast network and both owned and third-party platforms worldwide. Known for its independent, innovative spirit and provocative, groundbreaking storytelling, the company includes three key business units: FOX Television Network, FOX Entertainment Studios and worldwide content sales and licensing unit FOX Entertainment Global.

While maintaining its leadership in linear television with an exceptional slate of original series – including Doc, Extracted, Memory of a Killer, The Masked Singer, The Floor, The Simpsons, Animal Control, Going Dutch, Murder in a Small Town, Hell’s Kitchen and LEGO Masters – FOX Entertainment is growing its portfolio of studio engines, business operations and library of owned original content. 

To date, the FOX Entertainment Studios division includes its in-house unscripted studio with hits The Masked Singer, I Can See Your Voice and Name That Tune, and scripted content studio featuring comedies Animal Control and Going Dutch and signature drama series Best Medicine, The Faithful, The Way Home and The Chicken Sisters. The unit also oversees the award-winning animation studio Bento Box Entertainment with animated comedies including Krapopolis, Grimsburg, Hazbin Hotel and Universal Basic Guys; entertainment platform TMZ with its tentpole primetime series TMZ Investigates; its new independent film label Tideline Entertainment with inaugural releases including First Time Female Director, Ponyboi and Slanted; and the culinary and lifestyle content venture Studio Ramsay Global in partnership with iconic chef Gordon Ramsay, featuring food-themed original series on FOX such as Next Level Chef, Kitchen Nightmares and Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service, as well as the new next-gen global food brand and entertainment platform Bite, No Taste Like Home on Disney+, Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars on Apple+ and a new untitled Gordon Ramsay documentary series on Netflix in early 2026.

As a global content creator and production partner, FOX Entertainment Studios collaborates with studios and platforms worldwide, including Disney, Hulu, Warner Bros. Discovery, Sony Pictures Television, Prime Video, Netflix, Apple+, Hallmark, Lifetime, TelevisaUnivision, UK’s Channel 4, France’s TF1, German’s ProSieben, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Australia’s Foxtel and FOX-owned streamer Tubi, among others.

About Jesse Collins Entertainment

Founded in 2012, Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full-service Emmy winning production company that has played an integral role in producing many of television's most memorable moments in music entertainment.  JCE's award-winning and critically acclaimed television includes programming from its four divisions—specials, sports, scripted and unscripted.  From the specials division: award shows—The Emmy Awards, The 2021 and 2022 American Music Awards, The 2022 Golden Globes, BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Black Girls Rock!, BET Honors, UNCF's An Evening of Stars and ABFF Honors; specials—Jimmy Fallon's Holiday Seasoning Spectacular, Christmas in Rockefeller Center, The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama & Oprah Winfrey (Primetime Emmy Award nominee), A GRAMMY Salute to 50 Years of Hip Hop, Lil Rel Howery: I said it. Y'all thinking it., CNN's Juneteenth: A Global Celebration of Freedom, Martin: The Reunion, John Lewis: Celebrating A Hero, Love & Happiness: An Obama Celebration, Change Together: From The March On Washington To Today, A GRAMMY Salute to the Sounds of Change, Stand Up for Heroes, Dear Mama, Amanda Seales: I Be Knowin', Def Comedy Jam 25, Leslie Jones: Time Machine, The All-Star Nickmas Spectacular and Rip the Runway.  From the sports division: Beyoncé Bowl at the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans NFL 2024 Christmas Game (Primetime Emmy Award winner), The Super Bowl Halftime Show (Primetime Emmy Award winner), The 95th Major League Baseball All-Star Game Pre-Game Show, The 2025 World Series Game 1 Anthem, NFL Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day Halftime Show starring Jack White and Netflix’s Snoop’s Holiday Halftime Party.  From the scripted division: scripted series—Real Husbands of Hollywood, American Soul and miniseries—The New Edition Story and The Bobby Brown Story.  From the unscripted division: unscripted series – Heart & Hustle: Houston, Tia Mowry: My Next Act, Gabrielle Union: My Journey to 50, Oh Hell No! With Marlon Wayans, Cardi Tries, My Killer Body with K. Michelle, DJ Cassidy's Pass the Mic and Forward: The Future of Black Music, competition series—Hollywood Squares, Rhythm + Flow, Celebrity Squares, Becoming A Popstar, Sunday Best, Hip Hop Squares and Nashville Squares, talk shows – We Got Time Today, Yara Shahidi's Day Off and Face to Face with Becky G, and children's series—Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices (Daytime Emmy Award winner).  Emmy Award winner Jesse Collins is the Founder & CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment and executive producer of all JCE programming.  He is also an executive producer for the annual GRAMMY Awards and produced the 2021 Oscars.  Emmy winner Dionne Harmon is President.  Emmy nominee Jeannae Rouzan-Clay is Senior Vice President of Specials.

Record producer, DJ and founder of Global Gaming League – Clinton Sparks – to host new iHeartPodcast, “Get Familiar,” later this year

Las Vegas, NV (March 11, 2026) — iHeartMedia, the No. 1 audio company in the U.S., today announced a new production, marketing and distribution deal with the Global Gaming League (GGL), marking a major cultural moment for the competitive video gaming space. Through this partnership with one of the fastest-growing platforms at the intersection of gaming, music, fashion, celebrity and culture, iHeart will become GGL’s audio partner, co-creating original podcasts that will deliver weekly gaming and culture programming across iHeartMedia’s multiplatform network. Additionally, all initiatives will be elevated through GGL’s unique partnerships with its celebrity team owners, all true gamers with tremendous influence.

“Gaming is culture,” said Clinton Sparks, Founder & CEO of Global Gaming League who started his career at iHeartRadio. “iHeart understands that its artists, talent and listeners are gamers. This partnership brings that reality to the forefront and connects it with a league built to unite gaming, music, fashion, sports and celebrity in a unique way that seamlessly brings these worlds together.”

As part of the deal, Sparks will debut his own podcast, “Get Familiar,” later this year with iHeartPodcasts. Fearless, funny and the voice of reason in an unreasonable world, Sparks will deliver unfiltered moments that collide insight with irreverence. During the first season, the podcast will feature intimate conversations with brilliant minds, iconic celebrities and delightfully offbeat contrarians to unpack culture, disrupt norms and say the quiet parts others are afraid to say out loud.

“iHeartRadio is where culture breaks first, and gaming now sits at the center of that culture,” said Nick Ditri, VP of Business Development & Music at Global Gaming League. “Having a true audio presence allows us to spotlight creators, tell player stories, and make gaming feel more human and more accessible. This partnership doesn’t just expand reach, it deepens connection, and that’s what brings casual audiences into the fold and builds long-term community around both GGL and iHeartRadio.”

“This collaboration shows iHeart’s commitment to authentically elevating gaming culture,” said Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for iHeartMedia. “Together, iHeart and GGL are creating a new blueprint for how gaming lives inside mainstream culture—bringing competitive gaming to listeners and new fans nationwide by introducing them directly into the Global Gaming League ecosystem.”

“Get Familiar” will be distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard later this year. Follow Instagram, X, facebook, and TikTok to keep up to date on debut details.

 iHeartRadio stations nationwide will feature Harry Styles’ “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally” all day long on the album’s release day

NEW YORK – March 6, 2026 – iHeartMedia stations celebrated Harry Styles’ fourth studio album “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally” with special programming leading up to its release on Friday, March 6. 

Ahead of the premiere, iHeart built excitement for the release with a series of “Album Preview Parties” in New York, Los Angeles and Boston. These early intimate listening experiences gave fans the rare opportunity to hear the full album before anyone else and supported Harry’s return in a truly fan-first way.

On the day of the album’s release, stations nationwide will feature the highly-anticipated project all day long across all iHeartRadio Pop and select Hot AC stations. Each station will air a different track from the album every hour in a coast‑to‑coast celebration helping fans instantly connect with the new music – including the album’s first single “Aperture.”

Fans can also stream Harry Styles on the iHeartRadio app and keep up with the latest music news by following iHeartRadio on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, Facebook and YouTube, and visiting iHeartRadio.com.

Listen Here NOW

WHAT: Fans of Formula 1 are ready to let the world in on the sport's worst kept secret: The high-speed racing drama on the track is nothing compared to the multi-billion dollar lifestyle surrounding the superstar drivers and the cutthroat competition between their teams. Enter the new iHeartPodcast “No Grip,” a culture podcast hosted by “Engine Failure” creator Lily Herman that dives headfirst into Formula 1’s under-explored cultural pockets.

Each episode of “No Grip” tackles the wacky and dramatic mishaps, scandals and sagas surrounding the sport – from the ever-expanding world of F1 romance novels and the cataclysmic 2023 event Lily calls WAGageddon, to the infamous missing Monaco Grand Prix diamond and the astrology of the grid.

WHO: Lily Herman is the host of “No Grip” and the writer of the longtime Formula 1 culture newsletter Engine Failure. She previously co-hosted the iHeartPodcast “Choosing Sides: F1” in 2022, which was nominated for an Ambie Award and appeared on year-end best podcast lists for Vulture and Esquire. She has also co-hosted and produced the popular romance novel podcast “Friends to Lovers.”

In addition to her podcasting work, Lily is a writer and editor by trade with bylines in Teen Vogue, Glamour, Allure, Cosmopolitan, ELLE and more.

WHEN: The first episode of “No Grip” premieres Wednesday, March 4, 2026, with new episodes on race days. 

WHERE: “No Grip” is available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. 

SHOW LINK: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-no-grip-324786162

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