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NEW YORK — As we inch closer to 2026, we’re getting a sneak peek into the number one New Year’s Eve celebration on television from the show hosts themselves.
They are the hosts with the most: Ryan Seacrest and British singer and actress Rita Ora. The two are ready to once again take center stage in Times Square for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”
The pair says those last few moments before the iconic ball drops can be nerve wracking.
“I would say about that 30-second mark, I’m thinking pay attention to 11, so you hit 10 right at 10,” Seacrest said.
This year’s broadcast is packed full of performers, roughly 39 artists, making it the largest lineup and the longest show ever.
Although there was rain last New Year’s Eve, Ora says the spectators were still able to enjoy the festivities.
“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 , 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.
‘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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