American singer Miley Cyrus will be honoured with the Innovator Award at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Producers announced on Wednesday that the Flowers hitmaker will receive the prestigious recognition during the ceremony scheduled to take place at the Dolby Theatre on 26 March.
The Innovator Award is presented annually to an artist who has significantly influenced both music and global culture throughout their career.
In a statement, organisers praised Miley Cyrus’ lasting cultural impact, noting her rise to fame through the Disney series Hannah Montana and her evolution into one of the most influential voices in pop music.
They also highlighted her humanitarian efforts, including her work through the Miley Cyrus Foundation and the launch of Happy Hippie Foundation, which advocates for homeless and at-risk youth.
Miley Cyrus, 33, has not yet publicly commented on the announcement.
Previous recipients of the Innovator Award include Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Pharrell Williams, Bruno Mars, U2, Alicia Keys and Lady Gaga.
Meanwhile, rapper and actor Ludacris will receive the Landmark Award, which recognises artists whose work has shaped culture across multiple decades. The star, whose real name is Christopher Bridges, will also host the ceremony.
“I’m excited to return as host of the iHeartRadio Music Awards to celebrate and perform alongside some of the best in the industry,” he said, promising a night of special performances and surprise moments.
Additionally, Alex Warren will be honoured with the Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award and is expected to perform at the event.
Other performers confirmed for the ceremony include Lainey Wilson and RAYE. Music groups TLC, Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue will also perform together for the first time.
This year’s awards feature strong competition across categories, with artists such as Bad Bunny, Benson Boone, Ed Sheeran, Ella Langley, GloRilla, KATSEYE, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift receiving multiple nominations.
