Tag: Awards

The 2026 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) have officially concluded, bringing together some of the biggest names in African music, entertainment and culture for a night celebrating the continent’s creative excellence.

The awards returned in 2026 after a two-year break, with this year’s ceremony taking place on September 12 at Annette Strauss Square in Dallas, Texas, as part of the expanded AFRIMMA MusicFest.

The 2026 edition saw artists from across Africa and the diaspora compete across regional, musical and cultural categories, with 41 honors ultimately presented.

DR Congo’s Fally Ipupa emerged as one of the biggest winners of the night, taking home Artist of the Year and the Crossing Boundaries with Music Award. Nigeria’s Davido won Album of the Year for 5ive, while BNXN and Sarz took home both Song of the Year and, alongside Diamond Platnumz and Juma Jux, competed among the year’s biggest collaborations.

Other notable winners included Tems, Ruger, Tyla, Marioo, Nikita Kering, Fola, Phyno, Mercy Chinwo, Eno Barony, DJ Tunez, London, Patoranking, Shenseea, Dope Nation, Victor Osimhen, Victony and Didi B. 

Full AFRIMMA 2026 Winners List

Regional Awards

Best Male West Africa
Nominees: Davido, Black Sherif, BNXN, Rema, Asake, Didi B, Djodje, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Ruger, Dino Santiago
Winner: Ruger 

Best Female West Africa
Nominees: Hadzi Vodushi, Tems, Josey, Viviane Chidid, Ayra Starr, Moliy, Tiwa Savage, Mariam Ba Lagare, Teni, Soraia Ramos
Winner: Tems 

Best Male East Africa
Nominees: Lij Michael, Marioo, Eddy Kenzo, Diamond Platnumz, Juma Jux, Bien, Mbosso, Joshua Baraka, Single Dee, Barnaba
Winner: Marioo 

Best Female East Africa
Nominees: Abigail Chams, Veronica Adane, Bridget Blue, Zuchu, Nikita Kering, Ariel Wayz, Njerae, Winnie Nwagi, Salemia
Winner: Nikita Kering 

Best Male Central Africa
Nominees: Matias Damásio, Dadju, TayC, Fally Ipupa, Calema, Gims, Gerilson Israel, Ko-C
Winner: Gerilson Israel 

Best Female Central Africa
Nominees: Anna Joyce, Rebo, Krys M, Blanche Bailly, Cindy Le Coeur, Espoir La Tigresse, Jessy B, Emma’a
Winner: Emma’a 

Best Male Southern Africa
Nominees: Scott Maphuma, Nutty O, Yo Maps, DJ Maphorisa, Zeze Kingston, Cassper Nyovest, William Last KRM, Kabza De Small
Winner: DJ Maphorisa 

Best Female Southern Africa
Nominees: Mawhoo, Tamy Moyo, Charma Gal, Babalwa M, Hanna, Uncle Waffles, Bombshell Grenade, Makhadzi, Tyla
Winner: Tyla 

Best Male North Africa
Nominees: Wegz, Stormy, Adviser, Amr Diab, Marwan Moussa, ElGrandeToto, DJ Snake, Cheb Momo
Winner: DJ Snake 

Best Female North Africa
Nominees: Marwa Loud, Chirine Lajmi, Manal, Souhila Ben Lachhab, Sherine, Latifa, Kenza Morsli, Zina Daoudia
Winner: Latifa

https://twitter.com/streamdorm/status/2098331224028631489?s=46

Music Awards

Crossing Boundaries with Music Award
Nominees: Burna Boy, Aya Nakamura, Rema, Davido, Toby Nwigwe, Flavour, Wizkid, Fally Ipupa, Odeal
Winner: Fally Ipupa

Best Newcomer
Nominees: Lisandro Cuxi, Mavo, Abigail Chams, 6uff, Lava Lava, Florito, Toxic Lyrikali, Fola
Winner: Fola

Artist of the Year
Nominees: Asake, Fally Ipupa, Diamond Platnumz, Burna Boy, Rema, Tyla, Tems, Davido, Bien
Winner: Fally Ipupa

Best Gospel
Nominees: Mercy Chinwo, Prosper Germoh, Christina Shusho, Miguel Buila, Bidemi Olaoba, Deborah Lukalu, Joel Lwaga, Moïse Mbiye, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye
Winner: Mercy Chinwo

Best Female Rap Act
Nominees: Rosa Ree, Eno Barony, Bombshell Grenade, Freda Rhymz, Moozlie, Ssaru, Ami Yerewolo, Candy Bleakz
Winner: Eno Barony

Best Male Rap Act
Nominees: Odumodublvck, Jeriq, Ninho, Black Sherif, A-Reece, 6uff, Blxckie, Yung Lunya, Phyno, Himra
Winner: Phyno

Best Collaboration
Nominees: Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Davido & Omah Lay — “With You”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Patoranking ft. Ruger — “Shake That”; Fally Ipupa ft. Wizkid — “Jam”; Jazzworx & Tukuthela — “Bengicela”; Flavour ft. Baaba Maal — “Afroculture”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile”
Winner: Diamond Platnumz & Juma Jux — “Joy”

Song of the Year
Nominees: Davido ft. Omah Lay — “With You”; BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”; Bien & Alikiba — “Finale”; Diamond Platnumz ft. Juma Jux — “Joy”; Moliy ft. Shenseea & Skillibeng — “Shake It to the Max”; Black Sherif — “So It Goes”; Ciza — “Isaka (6AM)”; Young Jonn — “Elumelu”; DopeNation — “Kakalika”; Marvais Djo ft. Kano Choir — “Pile”; DJ Kedjevara — “Ça Fait Mal”
Winner: BNXN & Sarz — “Back Outside”

Best Video Director
Nominees: Hanscana, Director Pink, Elias Belkader, Mateo Da Silva, TG Omori, Babs Direction, Jake Zaral, Dammy Twitch
Winner: Pink

Best DJ Africa
Nominees: DJ Spinall, DJ Dollar, Uncle Waffles, DJ Obi, DJ Tunez, DJ Sly King, DJ Commissioner Wysei, DJ Nelasta, Major League DJs, DJ Kaywise, DJ Dope Caesar, DJ Moh
Winner: DJ Tunez

Best African DJ USA
Nominees: DJ Kuncept, DJ Akua, DJ Prince, DJ Bode, DJ Chelsea, DJ Shinski, DJ Birame BB L’amour, DJ Oreo, Lex and Answer, DJ Nani
Winner: DJ Prince

Music Producer of the Year
Nominees: Masterkraft, Andre Vibez, 207, Dlala Thukzin, Magicsticks, MOG Beatz, Xduppy, London
Winner: London

Best African Dancer
Nominees: Masaka Dance Kids, Incredible Zigi, Poco Lee, Ghetto Kids, Angel Nyigu, Hope Ramafalo, Wet Bad Gang, Dancegod Lloyd, Hooliboy
Winner: Ghetto Kids

Best Male Reggae/Dancehall
Nominees: Valiant, Mr. Killa, Patoranking, Shatta Wale, Skillibeng, Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Kranium
Winner: Patoranking

Best Female Reggae/Dancehall
Nominees: Shenseea, Jada Kingdom, Moliy, Spice, Koffee, Lila Iké, Shaneil Muir, Vanessa Bling
Winner: Shenseea

Best African Group
Nominees: Disco Misr, Calema, Show Dem Camp, Toofan, DopeNation, Team Paiya, Mi Casa, Bracket
Winner: Dope Nation

Album of the Year
Nominees: Black Sherif — Top of The Morning Era; Omah Lay — Clarity of Mind; Asake — M$NEY; Tyla — A-Pop; Burna Boy — No Sign of Weakness; Lloyiso — Never Thought I Could; Davido — 5ive; Leigh-Anne — My Ego Told Me To; Himra — SORRY I’M BAD
Winner: Davido — 5ive

Best African USA-Based Artist
Nominees: Kwate, Bills, Mannywellz, Moses Sumney, Libianca, Palmwine Tappers Band, Detty K, J Pako, Emma Nyra
Winner: Kwate

AFRIMMA Music Without Borders Award
Winner: Juma Jux

AFRIMMA Timeless Impact Award
Nominees: Timaya, Amr Diab, Sarkodie, Nameless, Oskido, Kcee, Slap Dee, Bebe Cool, Flavour, Mafikizolo
Winner: Timaya

Culture & Impact Awards

African Athlete of the Year
Nominees: Victor Osimhen, Serhou Guirassy, Ademola Lookman, Achraf Hakimi, Pascal Siakam, Faith Kipyegon, Nnamdi Madubuike
Winner: Victor Osimhen 

Best Influencer
Nominees: Peller, Carter Efe, Khaby Lame, Nasty Blaq, Lasizwe Dambuza, Ilyas El Maliki, Crazy Kennar, Sabinus
Winner: Nasty Blaq 

Best Actor/Actress
Nominees: Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Ademoye, Uche Montana, Elizabeth Michael “Lulu”, Zander Adika, Pallance Dladla, Masali Baduza
Winner: Uche Montana 

Best Comedian
Nominees: Basketmouth, Bovi, Warri Pikin, Eric Omondi, Trevor Noah, Godfrey, Patrick “Salvado” Idringi, Ty Ngachira
Winner: Warri Pikin 

Best Hypeman/MC
Nominees: Big Smart, Shody, Ogee The MC, MC Wild, Robot Boii, Balaa MC, MC Mignon, Do2dtun
Winner: Big Smart 

Community Impact Award
Nominees: Ester Mathew Tonlagha Foundation, Noella Foundation, FAWE, Educate!, IkamvaYouth, Street Child, Tony Elumelu Foundation
Winner: Esther Mathew Tonlagha

The remaining special recognition categories were also revealed as part of AFRIMMA’s expanded 2026 honors.

Best Francophone – Innoss’B
Best Lusophone – Gerilson Israel
AFRIMMA Fans Choice Award – Victony
AFRIMMA Rising Star – Florito
Francophone Viewers Choice Award – Didi B 

The 2026 American Music Awards delivered one of its most competitive and globally diverse editions with major wins spread across K-pop, pop, R&B, Latin, Afrobeats, and hip-hop. From BTS’ dominance to Sabrina Carpenter’s pop takeover and Cardi B’s hip-hop sweep, the night reflected a fully global music landscape. Held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

ARTIST CATEGORIES

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Winner: BTS

Nominees:

• Bad Bunny
• Bruno Mars
• BTS
• Harry Styles
• Justin Bieber
• Kendrick Lamar
• Lady Gaga
• Morgan Wallen
• Sabrina Carpenter
• Taylor Swift

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Winner: KATSEYE

Nominees:

• Alex Warren
• Ella Langley
• KATSEYE 
• Leon Thomas
• Olivia Dean
• SOMBR

ALBUM CATEGORIES

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Winner: Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend

Nominees:

• Cardi B – AM I THE DRAMA?
• Fuerza Regida – 111XPANTIA
• Justin Bieber – SWAG
• Lady Gaga – Mayhem
• Morgan Wallen – I’m The Problem
• Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving
• Playboi Carti – MUSIC
• Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend 
• Tate McRae – So Close To What
• Taylor Swift – The Life of a Showgir

BREAKTHROUGH ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Winner: Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving

Nominees:

• Olivia Dean 
• SOMBR
• Zara Larsson
• Leon Thomas

SONG CATEGORIES

SONG OF THE YEAR

Winner: “Golden” – HUNTR/X

Nominees:

• Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
• Ella Langley – “Choosin’ Texas”
• HUNTR/X – “Golden”
• Kehlani – “Folded”
• Leon Thomas – “MUTT”
• Morgan Wallen – “I’m The Problem”
• Olivia Dean – “Man I Need”
• Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
• SOMBR – “Back to Friends”
• Taylor Swift – “The Fate of Ophelia”

SONG OF THE SUMMER

Winner: BTS – “SWIM”

Nominees:

• BTS – “SWIM” 
• Other viral summer hits

SOCIAL SONG OF THE YEAR

Winner: Tyla – “CHANEL”

Nominees:

• Disco Lines & Tinashe – “No Broke Boys”
• PinkPantheress – “Illegal”
• Role Model – “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out”
• Tyla – “CHANEL”
• Zara Larsson – “Lush Life”

COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR

Winner: PinkPantheress & Zara Larsson – “Stateside”

Nominees:

• BigXthaPlug & Bailey Zimmerman – “All The Way”
• David Guetta, Teddy Swims & Tones And I – “Gone Gone Gone”
• Morgan Wallen & Tate McRae – “What I Want”
• PinkPantheress & Zara Larsson – “Stateside” 
• Shaboozey & Jelly Roll – “Amen”
• Tinashe & Disco Lines – “No Broke Boys”

POP CATEGORIES

BEST FEMALE POP ARTIST

Winner: Sabrina Carpenter

Nominees:

• Sabrina Carpenter
• Olivia Rodrigo
• Taylor Swift
• Lady Gaga
• Dua Lipa

BEST MALE POP ARTIST

Winner: Justin Bieber

Nominees:

• Justin Bieber 
• Harry Styles
• Bruno Mars
• The Weeknd
• Morgan Wallen

R&B CATEGORIES

BEST FEMALE R&B ARTIST

Winner: SZA

Nominees:

• SZA 
• Kehlani
• Summer Walker
• H.E.R.
• Victoria Monét

BEST MALE R&B ARTIST

Winner: Bruno Mars

Nominees:

• Bruno Mars 
• Chris Brown
• The Weeknd
• Khalid
• Giveon

BREAKTHROUGH R&B ARTIST

Winner: Leon Thomas

Nominees:

• Leon Thomas
• Mariah The Scientist
• Ravyn Lenae

BEST R&B SONG

Winner: Bruno Mars – “I Just Might”

Nominees:

• Bruno Mars – “I Just Might”
• Kehlani – “Folded”
• Leon Thomas – “MUTT”
• Chris Brown & Bryson Tiller – “It Depends”
• Mariah The Scientist – “Burning Blue”

BEST R&B ALBUM

Winner: Bruno Mars – The Romantic

Nominees:

• Bruno Mars – The Romantic
• Justin Bieber – SWAG
• Leon Thomas – MUTT
• Mariah The Scientist – Hearts Sold Separately
• Summer Walker – Finally Over It

HIP-HOP CATEGORIES

BEST FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST

Winner: Cardi B

Nominees:

• Cardi B 
• Nicki Minaj
• Megan Thee Stallion
• Doja Cat
• Latto

BEST HIP-HOP SONG

Winner: Cardi B – “ErrTime”

Nominees:

• Cardi B – “ErrTime”
• Other major hip-hop tracks from top female rappers

ROCK / ALTERNATIVE

BEST ROCK / ALTERNATIVE ARTIST

Winner: Twenty One Pilots

Nominees:

• Twenty One Pilots 
• Imagine Dragons
• Foo Fighters
• Arctic Monkeys
• The Killers

BREAKTHROUGH ROCK / ALTERNATIVE ARTIST

Winner: SOMBR

Nominees:

• SOMBR
• Emerging alternative acts

LATIN CATEGORIES

BEST MALE LATIN ARTIST

Winner: Bad Bunny

Nominees:

• Bad Bunny 
• J Balvin
• Feid
• Maluma
• Rauw Alejandro

BEST LATIN ALBUM

Winner: KAROL G – Tropicoqueta

Nominees:

• KAROL G – Tropicoqueta
• Bad Bunny – Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar
• Feid – Ferxxocalipsis
• Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra
• Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran

AFROBEATS CATEGORY

BEST AFROBEATS ARTIST

Winner: Tyla

Nominees:

• Burna Boy
• Rema
• Wizkid
• MOLIY
• Tyla 

Tyla wins ‘Best Afrobeats Artist’ at the 2026 American Music Awards pic.twitter.com/qhohzdKFEk

— Music on Streamdorm 🎧 (@Streamdorm) May 26, 2026

DANCE / ELECTRONIC

BEST DANCE / ELECTRONIC ARTIST

Winner: David Guetta

Nominees:

• David Guetta 
• Calvin Harris
• Tiësto
• Fred again..
• Peggy Gou

SPECIAL AWARDS

• Lifetime Achievement Award — Billy Idol
• International Artist Award of Excellence — KAROL G
• Veterans Voice Award — Darius Rucker

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved Nigeria’s bid to host the 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards and the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly, major milestone for the country’s football administration and international sports profile.

The approval was announced following a high-level meeting between President Tinubu and CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the Africa Forward Summit held in Nairobi.

According to reports from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the meeting also had in attendance Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, former NFF President Amaju Pinnick, and CAF Acting General Secretary Samson Adamu.

The 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly is scheduled to take place in 2026 and is expected to bring together representatives from CAF’s 54 member associations, football administrators, and stakeholders from across the continent.

Nigeria will also host the prestigious CAF Awards ceremony, one of Africa’s biggest football events that celebrates outstanding achievements by players, coaches, clubs, national teams, and football officials.

The decision is seen as a major boost for Nigerian football and sports tourism, as the country prepares to welcome football executives, athletes, media organizations, and fans from across Africa and beyond.

Nigeria has previously hosted the CAF Awards in cities such as Lagos and Abuja. The last time the country hosted the event was in 2017, when Algerian football star Riyad Mahrez won the Men’s Player of the Year award, while Nigerian striker Asisat Oshoala claimed the women’s award.

More details, including the official host city and event schedule, are expected to be announced by CAF in the coming months.

Nigerian chess advocate and social entrepreneur Tunde Onakoya has achieved a historic milestone after becoming the first African to receive the Lideramos Youth Award for Social Impact. The award was presented in Barcelona, recognising his transformative work in underserved communities.

The Lideramos Youth Award celebrates young leaders across the world who are driving meaningful social change. Onakoya’s recognition marks a significant moment, not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole.

Onakoya is the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to empowering children in disadvantaged communities through chess and education. Since its inception, the initiative has helped thousands of children gain access to learning opportunities, mentorship, and scholarships, using chess as a tool to build critical thinking and life skills.

His journey from growing up in a modest environment in Lagos to becoming an internationally recognised changemaker has been widely celebrated as a story of resilience and purpose. Through his work, Onakoya has consistently advocated for education as a pathway out of poverty, positioning chess as more than just a game but a vehicle for social transformation.

In addition to his social impact work, Tunde Onakoya gained global attention for his record-breaking chess marathon in New York City in 2024, where he played continuously for over 60 hours in an attempt to set a new Guinness World Records title. The feat was aimed at raising funds and awareness for his initiative, further amplifying his mission to support underserved children through education.

While accepting the award, Onakoya spoke about the importance of small, consistent efforts in creating large-scale change, reinforcing the philosophy that has guided his work over the years.

The road to the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards is officially set, with organisers unveiling early details ahead of what is expected to be one of the big moments for African film and television this year.

Set against a rapidly evolving industry where cinema, streaming platforms, and digital content now intersect, AMVCA 2026 arrives at a time when African storytelling is expanding in both reach and influence. 

The ceremony is scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 9, 2026. As with previous editions, the main event will be preceded by a series of activities that typically shape the build-up, including the announcement of nominees and other industry-facing engagements that extend the awards beyond a single night.

A total of 32 categories will be awarded, covering film, television, and digital content. These categories are split between those decided by a jury and those influenced by audience voting.

The voting system remains hybrid. Submissions are first reviewed by a panel of judges who determine the nominees, after which selected categories are opened up for public voting. Final decisions are then made through a combination of jury input and audience participation, a format that has become central to how the awards position themselves within the industry.

One of the more notable developments ahead of this year’s ceremony is the appointment of Veteran Actress Joke Silva as Head Judge. Her role places her in charge of overseeing the judging process, particularly in categories determined by the jury. 

The official nominees for AMVCA 2026 are expected to be announced on March 29, 2026.

Beyond the awards themselves, AMVCA continues to hold a unique position within African entertainment. In an era where streaming platforms and social media can rapidly elevate content and creators, the awards still function as a more structured form of recognition. 

Note, this article is for informational and editorial purposes only and is not a promotional piece.

The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards brought together the biggest names in music for a night of celebration, recognition, and unforgettable performances. Hosted at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the event honored artists across multiple genres from pop and hip-hop to R&B, country, and international music. 

This year’s ceremony was marked by standout victories from Taylor Swift, who dominated in multiple categories, as well as Alex Warren and HUNTR/X. 

Below is the full list of nominees and winners from the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards.

Song of the Year

Anxiety — Doechii

Good News — Shaboozey

Love Somebody — Morgan Wallen

luther — Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Manchild — Sabrina Carpenter

MUTT — Leon Thomas

Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else — Benson Boone

Stargazing — Myles Smith

The Fate of Ophelia — Taylor Swift

Ordinary — Alex Warren (Winner)

Artist of the Year

Bad Bunny

Benson Boone

Chris Brown

Jelly Roll

Kendrick Lamar

Lady Gaga

Morgan Wallen

Sabrina Carpenter

Tate McRae

Taylor Swift (Winner)

Pop Artist of the Year

Alex Warren

Benson Boone

Tate McRae

Sabrina Carpenter (Winner)

Taylor Swift

Pop Song of the Year

Golden — HUNTR/X, EJAE, Audrey Nuna & Rei Ami

Manchild — Sabrina Carpenter

Ordinary — Alex Warren

Pink Pony Club — Chappell Roan

The Fate of Ophelia — Taylor Swift (Winner)

Best New Artist (Pop)

Jessie Murph

Myles Smith

Ravyn Lenae

sombr

Alex Warren (Winner)

Duo/Group of the Year

Linkin Park

Maroon 5

Shinedown

Twenty One Pilots

HUNTR/X, EJAE, Audrey Nuna & Rei Ami (Winner)

Best Collaboration

All The Way — BigXthaPlug ft. Bailey Zimmerman

luther — Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Timeless — The Weeknd ft. Playboi Carti

WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME — GloRilla ft. Sexyy Red

APT. — ROSÉ & Bruno Mars (Winner)

Country Song of the Year

After All The Bars Are Closed — Thomas Rhett

Liar — Jelly Roll

Love Somebody — Morgan Wallen

Whiskey Drink — Jason Aldean

Good News — Shaboozey (Winner)

Country Artist of the Year

Jason Aldean

Jelly Roll

Lainey Wilson

Luke Combs

Morgan Wallen (Winner)

Country Best New Artist

Chase Matthew

Hudson Westbrook

Josh Ross

Zach Top

Ella Langley (Winner)

Hip-Hop Song of the Year

NOKIA — Drake

Outside — Cardi B

The Largest — BigXthaPlug

WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME — GloRilla ft. Sexyy Red

luther — Kendrick Lamar & SZA (Winner)

Hip-Hop Artist of the Year

Cardi B

GloRilla

Kendrick Lamar (Winner)

R&B Artist of the Year

SZA

Leon Thomas

Chris Brown (Winner)

World Artist of the Year

MOLIY (Winner)

Special Honors & Awards

Breakthrough Award: Alex Warren
Innovator Award: Miley Cyrus
Icon Award: John Mellencamp
Landmark Award: Ludacris

The 14th annual Queerties Awards celebrated the best in LGBTQ+ entertainment, media, and pop culture with a ceremony held on March 10, 2026, in Los Angeles. Organized by Queerty, the fan-voted awards recognize standout achievements across film, television, music, social media, and cultural impact.

Each year, the Queerties highlight creators, performers, and projects that shape LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment. The 2026 ceremony was hosted by drag star and media personality Trixie Mattel, bringing together a wide mix of actors, musicians, influencers, and activists.

Among the biggest winners of the night was Cynthia Erivo, who took home Film Performance for her role in Wicked: For Good. The star also won the Read category, making her one of the evening’s most celebrated figures.

Music icon Lady Gaga won the Anthem award for her song Abracadabra, while actor Jonathan Bailey took home the Badass honor.

In television, the romantic drama series Heated Rivalry emerged as a major winner, claiming Best TV Drama, while the comedy series Hacks won Best TV Comedy. Meanwhile, Bella Ramsey was recognized for TV Performance for their role in The Last of Us.

Beyond traditional film and TV categories, the Queerties also celebrate social media creators, podcasters, and influential figures across LGBTQ+ culture.

Full List of Winners — 2026 Queerties Awards

Major Awards

Badass: Jonathan Bailey

Anthem: Abracadabra — Lady Gaga

Read: Cynthia Erivo

Film Performance: Cynthia Erivo — Wicked: For Good

Film Categories

Best Comedy Movie: The Wedding Banquet

Best Drama Movie: The History of Sound

Television

TV Drama: Heated Rivalry

TV Comedy: Hacks

TV Performance: Bella Ramsey — The Last of Us

Reality, Podcast & Digital

Reality TV: RuPaul’s Drag Race

Web Series: Very Delta

Podcast: The Kelly Mantle Show

Social Media

TikToker: Johnny Sibilly

Insta-Follow: Cheyenne Jackson

Culture & Arts

Style Icon: Paul Tazewell

Comic: Bowen Yang

Theater: DRAG: The Musical

Drag & Community

Drag Royalty: Bosco

Future All-Star: Suzie Toot

Special Honors

Sports Hero: Gus Kenworthy

Coming Out for Good: Niecy Nash

Next Big Thing: Red, White & Royal Wedding

Groundbreaker: Marissa Bode

Icon: Cole Escola

Catalyst: Wilson Cruz

Trailblazer: Murray Hill

The 2026 edition of the Saturn Awards celebrated the best achievements in science fiction, fantasy, horror, and genre entertainment across film and television. The ceremony, presented by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films, took place on March 8, 2026, in Los Angeles.

This year’s ceremony was dominated by Avatar: Fire and Ash, which emerged as the biggest winner of the night with five awards. The film, directed by James Cameron, won Best Science Fiction Film and several major craft and acting categories.

On the television side, the sci-fi series Pluribus led the winners with multiple awards, including Best Science Fiction Television Series.

Below is the full list of winners from the 2026 Saturn Awards.

Full Winners List – 2026 Saturn Awards

Film Categories

Best Science Fiction Film: Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Fantasy Film: How to Train Your Dragon
Best Horror Film: Frankenstein
Best Action / Adventure Film: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Best Thriller Film: Sinners
Best Animated Film: Inside Out 2
Best International Film: Godzilla Minus One
Best Film Adaptation: The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Film Acting Categories

Best Actor in a Film: Sam Worthington — Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Actress in a Film: Zoe Saldaña — Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Supporting Actor in a Film: Stephen Lang — Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Supporting Actress in a Film: Sigourney Weaver — Dust Bunny
Best Younger Performer in a Film: Jack Champion — Avatar: Fire and Ash

Film Craft Categories

Best Film Direction: James Cameron — Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Film Screenwriting: Ryan Coogler — Sinners
Best Film Music: Simon Franglen — Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Production Design: Avatar: Fire and Ash
Best Film Editing: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Best Visual / Special Effects: Avatar: Fire and Ash

Television Categories

Best Science Fiction Television Series: Pluribus
Best Fantasy Television Series: The Wheel of Time
Best Horror Television Series: The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon
Best Action / Thriller Television Series: Dexter: Resurrection
Best Adventure Television Series: Andor
Best New Genre Television Series: It: Welcome to Derry

Television Acting Categories

Best Actor on Television: Diego Luna — Andor
Best Actress on Television: Rosamund Pike — The Wheel of Time
Best Supporting Actor on Television: Ewan McGregor — Andor
Best Supporting Actress on Television: Melissa McBride — The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon

Special Awards

Lifetime Achievement Award: William Shatner
Dan Curtis Legacy Award: Aliens (accepted by James Cameron and Gale Anne Hurd)

The 2026 edition of the SiGMA Africa Awards brought together key players in gaming, fintech, digital innovation, and online entertainment for a night of recognition in Cape Town, South Africa. Held on March 3 as part of the wider SiGMA Africa Summit, the ceremony honoured companies and individuals shaping Africa’s fast-growing iGaming ecosystem.

From platform providers to payment solutions and content creators, the awards reflect the scale and increasing sophistication of the continent’s digital gaming industry.

The SiGMA Africa Awards are organised under the global SiGMA World event series, which hosts summits across multiple regions focused on iGaming, emerging technology, blockchain, and digital payments.

The Africa edition specifically spotlights the continent’s expanding market, recognising excellence across categories such as: Casino and sportsbook operators, Game and slot providers, Payment and KYC solutions, Marketing innovation, Workplace culture, Influencers and streamers.

Winners are selected through a combination of industry judging panels and, in some categories, public voting. The awards ceremony forms part of a multi-day summit featuring keynote sessions, exhibitions, networking events, and investor meetings.

One of the standout moments of the night was the announcement of Shankcomics as Best Streamer 2026.

The award recognises excellence in live streaming, audience engagement, and overall impact within the gaming and digital entertainment ecosystem. 

Full Winners List – SiGMA Africa Awards 2026

Below is the complete list of winners announced at the ceremony:

Emerging Markets Payment Solution 2026 — Bitlipa

Best Affiliate Program 2026 — Linebet Partners

Best Casino Provider 2026 — Pragmatic Play

Crash Game Newcomer 2026 — Skypilot by Aardvark

Best KYC Solution 2026 — Sumsub

Best Casino Operator 2026 — Melbet

Best Virtual Sports Provider 2026 — Kiron Interactive

Slot Game Newcomer 2026 — Mineslot by Inoutgames

Best Innovation in Sports Betting 2026 — Digitain

Best Game Provider 2026 — EGT Digital

Best On Mobile 2026 — 1xBet

Best Online Sportsbook Provider 2026 — BetConstruct AI

Industry Rising Star 2026 — Veligames by Velitech

Best Slot Game Provider 2026 — Amusnet

Most Played Game 2026 — Avion Supersonic by Lambda Gaming

Best Marketing Campaign 2026 — Partnerships With Global Sports Giants by Spribe

Best Streamer 2026 — Shankcomics

Best Sportsbook Operator 2026 — 22Bet

Live Casino Provider Rising Star 2026 — Choice Gaming

Best Workplace 2026 — Alea

Best Platform 2026 — SoftSwiss

Women in Gaming 2026 — Valentina Bagniya

Best Testing Lab Innovation 2026 — Global Lab

Game Innovation Award 2026 — Arcade Heist Hit&Win by Golden Race

Best Influencer 2026 — Dr Thembi Shilenge

The 57th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors ceremony has unveiled its full slate of winners ahead of the main televised event, celebrating excellence across film, television, digital content, and performance.

With critical wins for Sinners, Abbott Elementary, and standout individual honorees including Don Lemon, the night itself was defined by range: prestige cinema, network comedy, digital creators, drama performances, and animated features all shared the spotlight.

Below is the complete list of winners announced during the Creative Honors presentation.

Film Winners

Outstanding Motion Picture – Sinners

Outstanding Director – Motion Picture – Ryan Coogler (Sinners)

Outstanding Writing – Motion Picture – Ryan Coogler (Sinners)

Outstanding Supporting Actress – Motion Picture – Wunmi Mosaku (Sinners)

Outstanding Supporting Actor – Motion Picture – Delroy Lindo (Sinners)

Outstanding Ensemble Cast – Motion Picture – Sinners

Outstanding Stunt Ensemble (Television or Motion Picture) – Sinners

Outstanding Cinematography – Motion Picture – Sinners

Outstanding Animated Motion Picture – Zootopia 2

Television Winners

Outstanding Comedy Series – Abbott Elementary

Outstanding Supporting Actor – Comedy Series – William Stanford Davis (Abbott Elementary)

Outstanding Supporting Actress – Comedy Series – Janelle James (Abbott Elementary)

Outstanding Directing – Comedy Series – Tyler James Williams (Abbott Elementary, “The Science Fair”)

Outstanding Supporting Actress – Drama Series – Aisha Hinds (9-1-1)

Talk, News & Digital Categories

Outstanding Host in a Talk or News/Information Series – Don Lemon (The Don Lemon Show)

Outstanding Digital Content Creator – Art/Comedy – Tee Sanders
Outstanding Host in a Talk/News/Information Series: Don Lemon for The Don Lemon Show

The main 57th NAACP Image Awards ceremony will air February 28, where additional winners across music, literature, and other entertainment fields will be announced.

Stay with Streamdorm for complete coverage of the main event and post-show analysis.