Diana Ross Headlines Historic New Year’s Eve 2026 Amid Entertainment’s Emotional Year

The entertainment world closes 2025 with a monumental send-off. Legendary artist Diana Ross will headline New Year’s Eve 2026 from Times Square. This historic performance caps a year marked by profound loss and record-breaking streaming achievements.It is a bittersweet finale for the industry. The celebrations honor past icons while launching a new chapter. According to ABC News, the broadcast will be the largest ever for the iconic annual event.

A Year of Profound Loss for Film and Music Icons

2025 was a year of significant goodbye tributes across Hollywood. Screen legend Robert Redford passed away in September at age 89. Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton and fellow award-winner Gene Hackman also died this year, leaving a lasting cinematic legacy.The music world endured similar heartbreak. Soul singer Roberta Flack, famous for “Killing Me Softly,” died in February. Rock and roll lost two giants: The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson and Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne. Their passing prompted global reflection on their immense influence.

Record-Breaking New Year’s Eve Lineup Stuns Viewers

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026 features an unprecedented 39 performers. The show airs live on ABC starting at 8:00 PM ET on December 31st. Diana Ross takes the main stage at 11:55 PM for a highly anticipated medley of her greatest hits.Hosts Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora will guide the night’s festivities. The Times Square roster includes major stars like Ciara, Post Malone, and Mariah Carey. Newer artists like Chappell Roan and KATSEYE will also perform, blending generations of talent.

Streaming Charts and Viral Trends Define the Year’s Sound

Bad Bunny was named Spotify’s Global Top Artist for 2025. He earned an astounding 19.8 billion streams worldwide. This marks his fourth time claiming the platform’s top annual honor.On Billboard’s charts, Morgan Wallen emerged as the year-end top artist. He is the first male country act to hold that position in over three decades. TikTok crowned girl group KATSEYE as its Global Artist of the Year, highlighting the power of viral trends.

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The New Year’s Eve 2026 broadcast provides a unifying moment of celebration and remembrance. It acknowledges a challenging year while boldly looking forward. The historic lineup promises an unforgettable start to the new year for audiences everywhere.

Info at your fingertips

What time does Diana Ross perform on New Year’s Eve?

Diana Ross is scheduled to perform just before midnight. Her headline set on the Times Square main stage begins at 11:55 PM Eastern Time.

How can I watch New Year’s Rockin’ Eve 2026?

Viewers can watch live on ABC television. The special will also be available for streaming on Hulu starting January 1st.

Who was the top streaming artist of 2025?

Bad Bunny was Spotify’s Global Top Artist for the year. He garnered nearly 20 billion streams across the platform globally.

Which major celebrities passed away in 2025?

The year saw the loss of several icons. This includes Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, Brian Wilson, and Ozzy Osbourne.

How many performers are on the NYE 2026 lineup?

The lineup features a record-breaking 39 performing artists. It is the largest roster in the history of the ABC special.

Are there other New Year’s Eve TV specials?

Yes. NBC airs “New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash” on Peacock. It features country stars like Lainey Wilson and Jason Aldean