Janet Jackson was honoured with the prestigious ICON Award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held live on Monday, May 26, from Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
The five-time Grammy Award winner was celebrated for her profound impact on the music industry, with CBS and Dick Clark Productions calling her "one of the most influential entertainers of the modern era."
Ahead of accepting the honour, Jackson, 59, performed a dynamic medley of her 2001 hits "Someone to Call My Lover" and "All for You," showcasing her signature dance moves.
Jackson, dressed in loose-fitting jeans, a white puffer jacket, and a tee, elevated the performance with a funky remix and a striking guitar solo during the latter track.
Following the performance, actress Tasha Smith presented Jackson with the ICON Award, offering a heartfelt tribute.
Jackson’s acceptance speech was both gracious and humble. “I love you so much,” she began, before addressing the crowd. “I am so honoured. I am so grateful. I mean, no disrespect in any way, but I don’t consider myself an icon.”
She continued, reflecting on her upbringing: “My family, myself, our dream wasn’t ever to be famous. We weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing, singing and fame came with the result of hard work and dedication. My story, my family’s story is truly an American story. This would have only happened in America.”
Jackson expressed her hope that her journey could inspire others: “I hope I’ve been an inspiration for other artists to follow their dreams and succeed.”
She ended her speech with gratitude, thanking her fans and team: “Because of you and God, I’m standing right here. I want to thank the AMAs for this honour, which I am humbly grateful — and last but not least, I want to say keep God in every part of your life because that’s where he wants to be. I love you so much.”
The ICON Award, presented annually to artists whose music has had undeniable cultural and global influence, has previously been awarded to stars like Rihanna (2013) and Lionel Richie (2022).
This year’s award marks Jackson's first live television performance since 2018.
She has also returned to Las Vegas for her residency, JANET JACKSON: LAS VEGAS, which runs from May 21 through May 31.
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