Rebel Yell! Billy Idol to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 AMAs

Billy Idol is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 52nd American Music Awards on Monday, May 25th. This recognition comes ahead of his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November.

Idol will be the third recipient of this honor, following Diana Ross (2017) and Rod Stewart (2025).

Fans can anticipate a high-energy medley of his greatest hits, marking Idol's first performance on the AMAs stage. He last appeared at the AMAs in 2004 as a presenter.

"Billy Idol is a true rock legend whose influence has transcended generations and genres,” said executive producers Barry Adelman and Alexi Mazareas in a joint statement. “From his groundbreaking music to his electrifying stage presence, Billy has left an indelible mark on popular culture and the music industry.”

The recent release of Billy Idol Should Be Dead, a documentary directed by Jonas Åkerlund, has reignited interest in the rocker's career.

Between 1984 and 1990, Idol achieved significant chart success with four top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and three top 10 albums on the Billboard 200. His chart-topping single was a live version of Tommy James & The Shondells’ “Mony Mony” in 1987, followed by “Cradle of Love” in 1990.

Karol G will also be honored at the AMAs with the International Artist Award of Excellence. Other performers include Hootie & the Blowfish, KATSEYE, Keith Urban, Maluma, Riley Green, SOMBR, Teddy Swims, Teyana Taylor and Twenty One Pilots.

The 52nd American Music Awards, hosted by Queen Latifah, will broadcast live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25th, airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT.

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