The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards are set to be a star-studded event, with Taylor Swift making her awards season debut and leading the nominations. This annual celebration of music is hosted by Ludacris and will air on Fox, offering viewers a chance to witness the excitement live or stream it online.
The Awards and Streaming Options
The 13th edition of the iHeartRadio Music Awards is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, at 8 p.m. PT/ET. For those who prefer streaming, several options are available. Fox's broadcast can be accessed through various streaming services, including DirecTV, Fubo, Sling, and Hulu + Live TV.
One of the most appealing aspects is the opportunity to stream the awards show for free. DirecTV, for instance, offers a five-day free trial, making it the easiest and most cost-effective way to catch the ceremony online. Other services like Fubo and Sling also provide free trials, although they may require a subscription after the trial period. Hulu + Live TV, on the other hand, offers a three-day free trial, bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+.
A Closer Look at Streaming Services
DirecTV's signature packages, ranging from Entertainment to Premier, all include Fox. New subscribers can take advantage of the five-day free trial, allowing them to watch the awards show without any cost. Plans start at just $19.99 per month, making it an attractive option for those seeking flexibility and affordability.
Fubo, another popular choice, offers a similar five-day free trial. After the trial, plans start at $45.99 for the first month and then increase to $55.99 monthly. This service is ideal for those who want a more comprehensive streaming experience.
Sling's Blue Plan includes Fox in select markets, starting at $45.99 per month. The Orange & Blue plan, currently half off for the first month, offers an even better deal at $33 for the first month and $65.99 thereafter. This plan provides a great balance between cost and channel variety.
Nominations and Performers
Taylor Swift leads the nominations with nine, closely followed by Alex Warren, Sabrina Carpenter, and Bad Bunny, each with eight nominations. The artist of the year category is a tight race, featuring Swift, Carpenter, Bad Bunny, Benson Boone, Chris Brown, Jelly Roll, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Morgan Wallen, and Tate McRae.
The performance lineup is equally impressive, with Alex Warren, John Mellencamp, Kehlani, Lainey Wilson, Raye, TLC, Salt-N-Pepa, En Vogue, and Ludacris taking the stage. Ludacris will also host the event, adding to the star power of the evening.
Conclusion
The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards promise to be a memorable night, celebrating the best in music. With a range of streaming options and free trials available, fans can easily tune in to witness the excitement. The awards show, hosted by Ludacris, will showcase some of the biggest names in the industry, making it a must-watch event for music enthusiasts.
