Diana Ross will headline the highly anticipated “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” program, performing a medley of her iconic songs on December 31, 2025. This year’s celebration will be a special one—the 54th anniversary of the beloved event, which first debuted on PBS in 1972. The celebration of all things transportation will begin at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. So prepare yourself for a star-studded evening – with unforgettable performances and raucous celebrations continuing as late as 4 a.m. ET!
Ross’s setlist will include fan-favorites such as “I’m Coming Out” and “Upside Down.” This year it has, in my opinion, taken an even stronger place by storm. The popular Netflix show “Stranger Things” had everything to do with that resurgence. This selection is a testament to the cultural influence of the show and the everlasting magnetism of Ross, making for an exciting performance for at-home fans.
Star-Studded Lineup and Hosting Duties
Ryan Seacrest is returning for his 20th consecutive year to host “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”! He first made his debut on the show in 2005, serving as co-host with the late Dick Clark. His experience and familiarity with the program make him a reassuring presence as viewers count down to the new year. This year, he’ll be joined by co-hosts Chance the Rapper, Rob Gronkowski, Julianne Hough, and Roselyn Sánchez. TNCs, as they are called, will be based in cities such as Chicago and around the world, including Puerto Rico.
This year, looking to hear from production and design leaders instead? Busta Rhymes, T.I., Wyclef Jean, Goo Goo Dolls, Mariah Carey, Pitbull, Post Malone and hundreds more will be performing. And Chance the Rapper will be joining from Chicago for the first time. He’ll be introducing performances from DJs and live blues artists, bringing a colorful twist to the traditional New Year’s festivities.
Expanding Horizons
“New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” has changed and broadened a lot over the years from its original creation. The program opened with a vibrant celebration of NYC’s cultural diversity. Today, it proudly features parades and celebrations from dynamic cities and towns all over the country, including Las Vegas and Chicago. That expansion has helped make it the most watched New Year’s Eve celebration in the United States.
This year’s show is set to run for eight hours, providing viewers with extensive entertainment as they ring in the new year. Can’t make it live? Don’t worry! The whole program will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day, so you won’t miss a minute of the holiday fun.
