NEW YORK — As we approach 2026, viewers are being treated to an early glimpse of the top-rated New Year’s Eve television spectacle, courtesy of the show’s charismatic hosts.
Front and center are the dynamic duo: Ryan Seacrest, alongside British singer and actress Rita Ora. They are set to once again light up Times Square with “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” festivities.
The hosts admit that the countdown to the ball drop can be quite nerve-racking.
“When it gets down to those last 30 seconds, I focus on 11 to make sure we hit 10 exactly at 10,” Seacrest shared.
This year promises an impressive showcase, featuring around 39 performers, marking it as the largest lineup and longest broadcast in the program’s history.
Despite the rain that dampened last year’s celebrations, Ora notes that attendees still relished the joyous occasion.
“Yes, look the crowd, it really is about the crowd. They give us so much more energy and the performances,” Ora said.
“This year, we are all over the globe — we’re in Chicago for the first time, we love Chance the Rapper, he’s joining us.”
Meanwhile, Seacrest says he considers it an honor to headline the show on ABC, having received the baton from the late Dick Clark.
“I was so enamored by his ability to make all of us feel comfortable when we’re watching on TV. And so now I get to be here, and I got to work with him at one point too, so it’s a special show for me,” Seacrest said.
When the clock strikes midnight, nearly three tons of confetti will rain down on Times Square. It will be made of tiny pieces of paper, approximately 2″ x 2″ squares.
And one final fun fact for 2025: The first ball drop was in 1907, and it was made from wood and iron.
ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026” will go live Wednesday, Dec. 31, beginning at 8:00 p.m. EST and stream next day on Hulu.
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