Global superstar Janet Jackson was honored with the ICON Award on Monday night (May 26) at the 2025 American Music Awards.
Before accepting the award, the 59-year-old entertainer treated the audience and viewers to her first televised performance in seven years.
Introduced by host Jennifer Lopez, who quickly reflected on being cast in Jackson’s “That’s The Way Love Goes” video, she opened the set with her viral hit “Someone To Call My Lover,” which incorporated a mashup of Mariah Carey‘s “Shake It Off.” She closed with “All For You,” the title track of her 2001 album, which also includes “Someone To Call My Lover.”
After her two-song set, Jackson returned on stage to accept the prestigious award. She began her speech reflecting on the idea of being an icon. “I mean no disrespect in any way but I don’t consider myself an icon. My family, myself — our dream wasn’t to ever be famous,” she said.” We weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing. Fame came as the result of hard work and dedication.”
Jackson continued, “My story, my family’s story, it’s truly an American story. This would have only happened in America.” After thanking members of her team and her fans, Jackson concluded with: “I want to say keep God in every part of your life because that’s where He wants to be.”
The 2025 American Music Awards, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, took place at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Jackson will extend her stay in Vegas with her residency, Janet Jackson: Las Vegas, at Resorts World Theatre. The second leg began May 21, with performances through May 31.
Jackson recently announced six additional shows at Resorts World Theatre, beginning Sept. 10 and concluding Sept. 20. Tickets for the new shows go on sale Friday (May 30) at 10 a.m. PT.
Watch Janet Jackson perform at the 2025 American Music Awards below.
