5 Must-See Moments & The Full Lineup For Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2026

The world's most iconic New Year’s Eve celebration is officially "super-sized" for 2026, promising a record-breaking night of live performances and global countdowns. As of today, December 15, 2025, the full roster of hosts, the legendary headliner, and an expanded list of performers for *Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026* have been confirmed, solidifying its status as the definitive way to ring in the new year. This year's broadcast is set to be the most expansive in the show's history, stretching the celebration across multiple time zones and featuring a dazzling array of music superstars from Times Square to Puerto Rico.

The annual telecast, airing live on ABC, is ready to deliver over five hours of non-stop entertainment, culminating in the world-famous Times Square Ball Drop. With a mix of pop icons, hip-hop heavyweights, and rising stars, the 2026 event is engineered to capture the attention of millions worldwide, continuing the tradition that began over five decades ago with the legendary Dick Clark. The confirmed lineup ensures that every minute leading up to midnight will be a high-energy, unforgettable moment.

The 2026 Star-Studded Lineup: Who’s Performing Where?

The centerpiece of any *New Year's Rockin' Eve* broadcast is the staggering list of musical talent, and the 2026 edition is no exception. This year’s lineup is a powerhouse of genres, featuring a mix of legendary acts and contemporary chart-toppers, with performances split across the main Times Square stage and several new, exciting global venues.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

Times Square Headliner: A Global Icon Takes Center Stage

The biggest announcement for the 2026 celebration is the iconic headliner who will light up Times Square: the one and only Diana Ross. The "Queen of Motown" has been confirmed as the "Global Icon" performer, scheduled to deliver a dazzling live performance that will usher in the new year. Fans can anticipate a medley of her timeless hits, including her signature anthem, "I'm Coming Out," making her performance one of the most anticipated moments of the entire night.

Confirmed Performers Across All Stages

While Diana Ross anchors the New York show, the rest of the lineup spans multiple locations, ensuring a diverse and electric soundtrack for the countdown. The confirmed list of major artists includes:

• 50 Cent: The hip-hop mogul returns to the *Rockin' Eve* stage.
• Mariah Carey: An undisputed New Year’s Eve favorite, set to deliver her signature vocal flair.
• Charlie Puth: Bringing his pop sensibilities and piano-driven hits.
• Chappell Roan: The breakout star of the year, adding a fresh, vibrant energy.
• Demi Lovato: A celebrated vocalist known for powerful, dynamic performances.
• Post Malone: The genre-bending superstar, a massive draw for the younger audience.

The inclusion of this diverse talent pool—from the enduring legacy of Mariah Carey and 50 Cent to the contemporary relevance of Chappell Roan and Post Malone—showcases the show's commitment to delivering a truly global and all-encompassing musical experience.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

Global Stages and The Expanded Hosting Team

The 2026 broadcast is not just about Times Square; it is a multi-city spectacle. Ryan Seacrest, who has become synonymous with the show since taking over the main hosting duties, will once again lead the festivities from New York City.

However, the show’s "super-sized" format means a significant expansion of its co-host team and performance locations, extending the celebration to a record length and geographical reach.

The Co-Hosts and City Countdown Specialists

A rotating cast of celebrity co-hosts will manage the countdowns and performances from the various domestic and international stages:

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Rita Ora: The international pop star and television personality will serve as a key co-host alongside Seacrest in New York.
• Julianne Hough: The dancer, singer, and actress will host a segment from one of the new expanded locations.
• Chance the Rapper: The Chicago native and Grammy winner will likely anchor the festivities from the new Chicago stage.

The New Global Footprint

In a major expansion of the *New Year's Rockin' Eve* tradition, the 2026 show will feature live coverage and performances from a record number of locations, kicking off in New York and continuing across the continent.

The confirmed new performance stages and countdown locations include:

• Las Vegas: The entertainment capital of the world will host a segment featuring major musical acts.
• Chicago: A new addition to the broadcast, likely featuring Chance the Rapper's involvement.
• Puerto Rico: Continuing the show’s recent trend of incorporating international or territorial countdowns.

This geographical diversity ensures that viewers get a taste of New Year's Eve celebrations from coast to coast and beyond, making the broadcast a truly national, and increasingly global, event.

The Enduring Legacy of Dick Clark

The phrase "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve" is more than just a title; it represents a cultural institution that redefined how Americans celebrate the transition from one year to the next. The show’s rich history provides the foundation for the massive spectacle we see today.

A History of Rockin’

The concept for *New Year's Rockin' Eve* was first envisioned by Dick Clark in 1971. Clark’s goal was to create a more youth-oriented alternative to the traditional, often staid, New Year's Eve specials that were common at the time. The special first aired on December 31, 1972.

• Early Years: The first two editions were actually broadcast on NBC and hosted by acts like Three Dog Night and comedian George Carlin.
• The Move to ABC: In 1974, the special moved to ABC, where Dick Clark himself took over as the host, becoming the beloved face of the Times Square Ball Drop for decades.
• The Clark Era: Clark hosted the special annually from 1973 through 1999, and then again from 2001 through 2004, cementing his legacy as "America’s Oldest Teenager."

The Transition to Ryan Seacrest

Following a stroke, Dick Clark stepped back from his full-time hosting duties. Ryan Seacrest was brought on as a co-host in 2005. After Clark’s passing, Seacrest gracefully took the reins, successfully continuing the tradition while adding his own modern touch and expanding the show’s reach. The official title, *Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest*, honors the show's founder while acknowledging its current leader.

The 2026 edition continues this blend of tradition and modernity. From the historic Times Square backdrop and the iconic Ball Drop to the inclusion of contemporary stars like Chappell Roan and the global expansion to new cities, the show remains the gold standard for New Year’s Eve television. Tune in on Wednesday, December 31, live on ABC starting at 8:00 p.m. EST, or stream the next day on Hulu, to catch every moment of this super-sized, star-studded event.