Janet Jackson is about to be honored with a prestigious ICON Award in 2025, but here’s the twist — this celebration is part of a heartfelt cause that brings dancers and advocates together for something truly meaningful. At The Gala of the Stars, an annual charity event supporting Dancers Against Cancer, Janet Jackson will be recognized for her remarkable contributions to music, dance, and culture. This special night is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.
This ICON of the Year Award isn’t just any accolade. It’s designed to highlight Janet’s extraordinary impact, not only as a powerhouse performer but as a compassionate advocate who champions empowerment and artistic excellence. The statement announcing the honor says it all: Janet’s influence extends far beyond her music — she’s a cultural force whose dedication to dance and creativity inspires across generations.
Janet has always intertwined dance as a key part of her artistry. Fun fact: eleven of her music videos have earned nominations for best choreography at the MTV Video Music Awards, underscoring her lasting imprint on the dance world. And this is the part most people miss — she doesn’t just perform; she elevates dance into a storytelling art form that resonates deeply with audiences.
Presenting the award is none other than Liza Minnelli, an iconic star herself who has won Oscars, Emmys, and Tonys. Liza is widely celebrated for her own dynamic connection to dance and music. What adds even more warmth to this moment is their shared history — Liza has been a longtime family friend and was especially close to Janet's late brother, the legendary Michael Jackson.
Hosting this glamorous black-tie event is Maksim Chmerkovskiy, a fan favorite best known for his impressive tenure as a professional dancer on Dancing With the Stars. His involvement adds a touch of dance expertise and star power that complements the evening’s themes beautifully.
Adrian Ruiz, president of The Gala of the Stars and the organization Dancers Against Cancer, sums it up perfectly: "Janet Jackson exemplifies what this award is all about — resilience, creativity, empathy, and an unwavering dedication to genuine artistry. Her influence crosses age groups and continues to inspire. Honoring her this year not only celebrates her incredible legacy but also highlights her ongoing role in supporting the dance community and demonstrating how art can be a force for good."
For those unfamiliar, Dancers Against Cancer is a nonprofit founded in 2012 with a mission close to the heart of many in the dance world. This 501(c)(3) organization offers crucial financial help, emotional support, and a sense of community to dancers, teachers, and choreographers battling cancer. It’s a reminder that behind the glamour and spotlight, dance also has a powerful role in lifting people up through challenging times.
If you’re interested in being part of this impactful event, tickets and sponsorship information are available on the Dancers Against Cancer website, where updates will also be posted.
This is more than an award—it’s a celebration of legacy, courage, and the healing power of dance. But here's where it gets controversial: Do you think awards like this genuinely help the arts community, or are they more about star power and publicity? What’s your take on the relationship between art and advocacy? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
