The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles became a platform for significant political statements alongside the celebration of musical excellence, with Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny using his acceptance speeches to deliver a powerful message against US immigration policies.
Bad Bunny's Emotional Victory and Political Stand
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, created one of the night's most memorable moments when he accepted the Album of the Year award for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS. The 31-year-old artist appeared visibly emotional, taking several seconds to compose himself before addressing the audience at Crypto.com Arena.
During his acceptance speech, Bad Bunny dedicated his award to immigrants, stating: 'I want to dedicate this award to all the people that had to leave their homeland, their country, to follow their dreams.' This was not his only political statement of the evening - earlier in the ceremony, when accepting the Best Música Urbana Album award, his first words were 'ICE out', referring to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
Artists Unite in Political Protest
Bad Bunny was not alone in using the Grammy platform for political expression. Billie Eilish, who won Song of the Year for WILDFLOWER, made her own statement during her acceptance speech, declaring: 'No one is illegal on stolen land.' The 24-year-old artist went further, using profane language directed at ICE that was censored by network broadcasters.
Olivia Dean, who took home the coveted Best New Artist award, also referenced immigration in her speech, dedicating her win to her grandmother who immigrated from Guyana to the UK as part of the Windrush Generation. 'I'm up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant,' Dean told the audience. 'I wouldn't be here. I'm a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated.'
The political sentiment extended beyond acceptance speeches, with many artists wearing 'ICE out' pins throughout the ceremony in protest against the controversial agency. This collective action followed recent high-profile incidents involving ICE agents in Los Angeles and Minneapolis.
Star-Studded Afterparty Fashion
While the awards ceremony focused on musical achievements and political statements, the glamour continued at private afterparties across Los Angeles. British supermodel Cara Delevingne made a striking appearance at one such event, showcasing her newly-dyed brunette locks in a sophisticated black velvet trouser suit.
The 33-year-old model, previously known for her blonde hair, layered her tailored blazer over a white waistcoat, sheer collared shirt, and black necktie, creating a polished androgynous look that turned heads among the celebrity attendees.
Celebrity Style Highlights
Delevingne was joined by an equally glamorous group of celebrities at the exclusive gathering:
- Kaia Gerber, 24, epitomised chic simplicity in a classic black shift dress, accessorised perfectly and wearing her hair in an elegant updo that framed her delicate features
- Winnie Harlow, 31, made a bold fashion statement in a brown sheer lace dress worn over a PVC bodysuit, carrying her essentials in a distinctive Schiaparelli handbag
- Sofia Vergara, 53, showcased her famous figure in a busty red lace corset paired with a figure-hugging silk skirt, demonstrating her enduring style credentials
Major Award Winners
Beyond the political statements and fashion moments, the 2026 Grammys celebrated outstanding musical achievements across numerous categories. The complete winners list included:
- Album of the Year: Bad Bunny - DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
- Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar with SZA - luther
- Song of the Year: Billie Eilish - WILDFLOWER
- Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
- Best Pop Vocal Album: Lady Gaga - MAYHEM
- Best Rap Album: Kendrick Lamar - GNX
- Best Música Urbana Album: Bad Bunny - DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
Lady Gaga added to her impressive Grammy collection with three awards, while Kendrick Lamar also secured multiple honours for his collaborative work with SZA. The ceremony demonstrated the continuing evolution of the music industry, with artists using their platform to address social issues while celebrating artistic achievement.
The 2026 Grammy Awards will be remembered not only for the musical winners but for the powerful political statements made by some of the industry's biggest names, highlighting the ongoing debate around immigration policy in the United States. Meanwhile, the fashion moments at exclusive afterparties provided the glamorous counterpoint to the serious discussions taking place on the main stage.
