Diana Ross will usher millions of viewers into 2026 as the official headliner of Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. ABC confirmed the music legend will perform a special medley of her greatest hits live from Times Square, marking one of the most anticipated New Year’s Eve moments of the decade.
Ross will deliver iconic tracks including “I’m Coming Out” and “Upside Down,” setting the tone for a global broadcast featuring 39 artists across New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, Puerto Rico, and additional locations.
Diana Ross Leads a Star-Packed Lineup
In a statement, Ross emphasized the emotional impact of starting a new year together.
“Let’s embrace a new beginning, new opportunities, new joy — a celebration of love, where we all come together as we begin 2026,” she said.
She will anchor a lineup filled with powerhouse performers and cross-genre talent, reinforcing the show’s legacy as the world’s most-watched New Year’s Eve broadcast.
Among the major stars joining Ross are:
Mariah Carey
Post Malone
Chappell Roan
Demi Lovato
Maren Morris
50 Cent
Pitbull
Charlie Puth
OneRepublic
The performer list extends further with appearances from Ciara, Lil Jon, Madison Beer, New Kids on the Block, Goo Goo Dolls, Jordan Davis, 6lack, The All-American Rejects, Rick Springfield, and even the voices of KPop Demon Hunters.
Coast-to-Coast Broadcast Returns Bigger Than Ever
The Dec. 31 telecast begins live at 8 p.m. EST on ABC, with a next-day replay on Hulu.
Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora will host from Times Square, continuing the show’s signature countdown tradition.
Coverage expands nationwide as:
Chance the Rapper hosts from Chicago
Rob Gronkowski and Julianne Hough broadcast from Las Vegas
The multi-city approach allows viewers to experience New Year’s celebrations across multiple time zones, blending music, culture, and live entertainment into one unified broadcast.
A New Year’s Event Rooted in Tradition
First launched in 1972, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve remains a defining part of America’s holiday season. Each year delivers cultural moments that trend globally, and Diana Ross’s headlining performance is expected to follow suit.
The combination of returning stars, fresh breakout artists, and the timeless appeal of Ross positions this year’s broadcast to reach massive audiences across television and streaming platforms. With the 2026 milestone approaching, the show promises high-energy performances, emotional tributes, and the iconic Times Square ball drop watched around the world.
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