Where to Watch the AMAs: Your Ultimate Guide to Catching the American Music Awards
The American Music Awards (AMAs) is one of the biggest nights in music, a star-studded extravaganza showcasing the year’s top artists and performances. But with so many streaming options and broadcast channels, knowing where to watch the AMAs can be tricky. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every possible way to catch the show, ensuring you don’t miss a single note.
Understanding the AMA Broadcast Details
Before diving into the specifics of where to watch, let’s establish the basics. The AMAs typically air in the fall, usually on a Sunday evening. The exact date and time will be announced well in advance, often through official press releases and promotional campaigns on social media.
Keep an eye on these official sources for the latest updates:
- The official American Music Awards website
- The ABC network website and social media channels
- Dick Clark Productions’ website and social media channels (the show’s producer)
- Major entertainment news outlets such as Billboard, Rolling Stone, and Variety
Where to Watch the AMAs Live: Traditional Broadcast
For many years, the AMAs have been a staple on ABC, one of the major American television networks. This means you can typically watch the show live through your traditional cable or satellite TV provider. If you subscribe to a cable or satellite package that includes ABC, simply tune in to the designated channel at the scheduled time.
Checking Your Local Listings
While ABC is the primary broadcaster, it’s always a good idea to check your local TV listings. Channel numbers can vary slightly depending on your region and provider. Use your TV guide or your provider’s online channel guide to confirm the exact channel and time.
Streaming the AMAs: Your Digital Options
For cord-cutters and those who prefer streaming, several options allow you to watch the AMAs live without a traditional cable subscription. The availability of these options may vary depending on your geographic location.
ABC’s Streaming Service: Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is a popular streaming service that offers a wide range of channels, including ABC. This is a convenient option for those who already use Hulu or prefer a bundle of live television channels. Remember to check if ABC is included in your Hulu + Live TV package in your specific region.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another excellent option for streaming live television, and it often includes ABC in its channel lineup. Similar to Hulu + Live TV, it provides a convenient way to watch the AMAs without a traditional cable subscription. Check the channel availability for your area.
Other Streaming Services
Other streaming services such as fuboTV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream may also offer ABC in their channel packages. It’s always advisable to check the channel lineup for your specific location and package before subscribing to ensure ABC is included.

International Viewers: Watching the AMAs from Abroad
For those outside the United States, accessing the AMAs live might require a bit more effort. The availability of ABC and its streaming partners varies significantly depending on your location. You might find the show available on international versions of streaming services or through specific regional broadcast partners.

Using a VPN
Some viewers might consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access streaming services that geo-restrict content. However, it’s essential to use a VPN that complies with the terms of service of the streaming platforms, and always be aware of the legal implications and potential risks involved in accessing geo-restricted content.
Checking Local Listings in Your Region
It’s also a good idea to check your local television listings in your region or country. Sometimes, international broadcasters will partner with ABC or Dick Clark Productions to air the AMAs, often with a slight delay.
Post-Show Coverage: Catching Up on Missed Moments
Missed the live show? Don’t worry! There are typically several ways to catch up on highlights and full performances after the AMAs have aired.
- Official AMA YouTube Channel: The official YouTube channel usually posts full performances and highlight reels within a few days of the event.
- ABC’s On-Demand Services: If you have access to ABC through cable or streaming, check their on-demand services.
- Streaming Services’ On-Demand Libraries: Some streaming services will add the AMAs to their on-demand libraries after the live broadcast.
- Entertainment News Websites and Social Media: Various entertainment websites and social media platforms typically share highlights and clips from the AMAs.
Prepare for the AMAs: Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
To make sure your AMA viewing experience is as smooth as possible, consider the following:

- Check your internet connection: Ensure your internet connection is stable and fast enough for streaming.
- Confirm your subscriptions: Double-check that you have active subscriptions to any streaming services you plan to use.
- Plan your schedule: Set reminders so you don’t miss the show.
- Gather snacks and drinks: The AMAs is a long show! Prepare for a night of entertainment.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to watch the AMAs, no matter your preferred viewing method. Happy viewing!