The Pussycat Dolls made a sensational comeback at the 2026 American Music Awards on Monday, leading a star-studded lineup of epic performances. Nicole Scherzinger, Ashley Roberts, and Kimberly Wyatt rocked matching red latex bodysuits as they graced the stage at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
It marked their return to the show as a group for the first time since 2006, following their recent reunion, which was announced in March 2026. The trio performed a medley of their smash hits, including "Don't Cha" with Busta Rhymes, "Buttons," "When I Grow Up," and "Club Song." Missing from the lineup were Pussycat alums Jessica Sutta, Melody Thornton, and Carmit Bachar. The absence follows an Instagram statement from Bachar, who claimed she was left out of plans to reboot the group and go on tour.
Karol G Shines at First AMAs Performance
Elsewhere during Monday's musical extravaganza, Colombian sensation Karol G, 35, enchanted the audience during her first-ever performance at the show. The songstress shimmered in a skimpy silver dress as she sang "Ivonny Bonita" from her album Tropicoqueta. Later in the show, Karol was honored with the International Artist Award of Excellence and Best Latin Album for Tropicoqueta. Karol made history in April with her headlining Coachella performance, as she became the first Latina to do so. She then announced the Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour, a tour that kicks off this summer.
Teyana Taylor and Sombr Deliver Memorable Sets
Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor was also among the performers. The 35-year-old singer and actress rocked a futuristic silver look that showed off her gym-honed abs. Taylor started off the performance in an alien-looking spaceship before taking the stage in the eye-catching look. Sombr, 20, who was one of the most nominated artists of the night with seven total nods, made his debut at the show with a dramatic performance of his song "Homewrecker." The pop-rock hitmaker gave fans a moody spectacle as he belted out the track while drenched in a simulated rainstorm. He performed after winning Best Rock/Alternative Song for "Back to Friends."
Other Highlights from the Night
South Korean boy band BTS made their first awards show appearance in four years. The seven-member outfit, comprising members RM, Jin, Suga, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, kicked off the show with a pre-taped performance of their song "Hooligan" from their new album Arirang. The video was taken from their concert the night before at Allegiant Stadium. Iconic band Hootie and the Blowfish thrilled the audience with two of their greatest hits, "Hold My Hand" and "Only Wanna Be With You." Lead singer Darius Rucker was also honored later in the show with the Veterans Voice Award.
Six-member girl group KATSEYE gave a lively rendition of their latest single "Pinky Up." Lara Raj joined Daniela Avanzini, Megan Skiendiel, Yoonchae Jeong, and Sophia Laforteza on stage in blindingly colorful looks for the upbeat performance. Punk rock icon Billy Idol, 70, closed out the show with a bang after receiving the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award. Rocking his signature platinum spiky hair and a bright pink shirt, he performed his two classics, "Eyes Without a Face" and "Dancing With Myself." Country superstar Keith Urban, 58, pleased fans with a cover of Seals & Crofts' 1972 hit "Summer Breeze" from his upcoming album Flow State. He showed off his impeccable guitar skills.
Country heartthrob Riley Green, 37, delivered a smooth performance of his smash hit "Worst Way," which earned him a standing ovation from the audience. He commanded the stage in a casual short-sleeve button-down, classic blue jeans, and his signature cowboy hat. Musical duo Twenty One Pilots performed their viral hit song "Drag Path." Teddy Swims, 33, gave a heartfelt performance of his new single "Mr. Know It All." Colombian superstar Maluma, 32, performed "Tu Recuerdo" from his latest album Loco x Volver. Iconic boy band New Kids on the Block reunited for a medley of their greatest hits.
BTS scored Artist of the Year while SZA won Best Female R&B Artist during the AMAs, which were hosted by Queen Latifah. Going into the night, Taylor Swift led the pack with eight nominations, followed by Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Dean, sombr, and Morgan Wallen with seven nominations each. The American Music Awards is the world's largest fan-voted award show honoring the world's most influential artists and their passionate fanbases. Created by legendary producer and visionary Dick Clark and first awarded in 1974, the AMAs is known for delivering half a century worth of iconic performances, enduring moments that have defined and shaped pop culture, as well as a history of introducing audiences to breakthrough artists.
