Ryan Seacrest, the enduring host of the iconic New Year's Eve broadcast, marked the impending festivities by participating in the Nasdaq closing bell ceremony in Times Square. This event served as a prelude to his 21st appearance helming 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve.' He revealed that the 2025-2026 telecast would be an unprecedented eight-hour marathon, setting a new record for the program's length. The star-studded lineup promises an unforgettable night, featuring a diverse array of musical talent, with legendary artist Diana Ross leading the charge. This annual spectacle, a production of Dick Clark Productions, anticipates captivating millions of viewers as it ushers in the new year.
The broadcast is a highly anticipated tradition, consistently drawing a massive audience. Last year's show, for instance, garnered over 29 million viewers at the stroke of midnight, underscoring its enduring popularity and cultural significance. Seacrest's enthusiasm for the event was palpable during the Nasdaq ceremony, highlighting the dedication of the production teams and network partners who work tirelessly to deliver this monumental celebration.
Seacrest's Nasdaq Tribute and New Year's Eve Revelations
In anticipation of his 21st hosting tenure for 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve,' television personality Ryan Seacrest took center stage at Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square to participate in the ceremonial closing bell. This event was a precursor to the eagerly awaited New Year's broadcast, where Seacrest unveiled exciting details about the upcoming show. He announced that the 2025-2026 edition would make history as the longest telecast ever for the program, stretching an impressive eight hours. Seacrest expressed his immense excitement for the night, emphasizing the record-breaking duration and the extensive roster of talent slated to perform, promising an unparalleled celebration to ring in the new year.
During the Nasdaq ceremony, Seacrest shared his enthusiasm, stating that New Year's Eve is the event he looks forward to all year. He highlighted the magnitude of this year's show, not only for its extended broadcast time but also for the caliber of performers involved. The celebrity lineup is set to include a diverse array of artists from various genres, ensuring broad appeal. Seacrest specifically mentioned that Diana Ross would be the headliner, performing just before midnight, a highly anticipated moment. He also noted the presence of other popular acts such as 50 Cent and KPop Demon Hunters, underscoring the show's commitment to featuring the most relevant and popular artists of the year. This special broadcast, produced by Dick Clark Productions, continues to be a cornerstone of New Year's Eve celebrations across America.
The Unprecedented Scale of This Year's Celebration
This year's 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve' is set to redefine the New Year's celebration with an unprecedented scale and ambition. The telecast will extend for a remarkable eight hours, making it the longest in the show's storied history. This expanded format will allow for an even greater showcase of talent and more immersive coverage of the nationwide festivities. The extended duration underscores the production's commitment to delivering a truly comprehensive and unforgettable experience for viewers, solidifying its position as the premier New Year's Eve event. The sheer length of the broadcast, combined with the star-studded program, is poised to capture the attention of millions and create lasting memories.
The ambitious production features a star-studded ensemble of co-hosts, including Rita Ora, Chance the Rapper, Rob Gronkowski, Julianne Hough, and Roselyn Sánchez, who will guide viewers through the night's events. The broadcast commenced early at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on ABC, ensuring a full evening of entertainment. In addition to the headliner Diana Ross, the program boasts performances from a roster of acclaimed artists such as Chappell Roan, Charlie Puth, Demi Lovato, Maren Morris, Mariah Carey, OneRepublic, Pitbull, and Post Malone. This diverse lineup guarantees that there is something for everyone, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Jay Penske, CEO of Dick Clark Productions and chairman/CEO of Penske Media Corporation, emphasized the immense effort and dedication from all teams involved, expressing gratitude to the staff at Dick Clark, Penske Media, and ABC for their hard work during the holidays to bring this spectacular event to audiences across the nation. The show's consistent ability to draw massive viewership, with over 29 million tuning in at midnight last year, highlights its enduring popularity and its crucial role in ringing in the new year for millions.