Ludacris received the Landmark Award from Vin Diesel, honoring his decades-long impact on music and culture
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The rapper thanked behind-the-scenes contributors and teased new music during his acceptance speech
Ludacris is also hosting the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards
Ludacrisnot only hosted, but took home a major accolade at the 2026iHeartRadio Music Awards.
At the awards show, which took place on Thursday March 26 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the rapper and actor (whose real name is Christopher Bridges) received the Landmark Award, which recognizes artists whose work has impacted culture for decades.
Ludacris, 48, received his award fromVin Diesel, with whom he stars in theFast & Furiousfranchise.
The star took his time in the spotlight to thank "all the people behind the scenes," including mixing engineers, songwriters, producers, label executives, DJs, assistant stylists, lighting people, extras, managers and more.
"This particular award is one of those things where I work hard, but I absolutely don't do it myself," he said.
His speech was interrupted by his own voice yelling, "Luda!," which signaled that he needed to wrap, and he joked, "They're using me against me right now."
Ludacris concluded by thanking his wife Eudoxie and his fans.
"I thank y'all for 25 years. I'm coming back with new music," he said. "I love you."
Ludacris' last album,Ludaversal,came out in 2015.
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Check out all of PEOPLE's iHeartRadio Music Awards coverage here.
When iHeartMedia revealed details earlier this month about the awards show, it was announced that Ludacris would return to host the event.
"I'm excited to return as host of the iHeartRadio Music Awards to celebrate and perform alongside some of the best in the industry," he said in a statement at the time.
The Grammy winner, who previously hosted the ceremony in 2024, added, "It's going to be a night with special performances and surprise moments fans are going to love."
Check out all of PEOPLE's iHeartRadio Music Awards coverage here.
In 2000, Ludacris broke through with his major label debutBack for the First Timeand continued to release multi‑platinum albums including 2001'sWord of Mouf, 2003'sChicken‑n‑Beerand 2004'sThe Red Light District, making him one of the most influential artists of the early 2000s.
Ludacris has earned three Grammy Awards throughout his career and has landed acclaimed acting roles, including playing Tej Parker in theFast & Furiousfranchise.
At this year's awards show,Miley Cyrusalso took home the iHeart Innovator Award, whileJohn Mellencampwon with the Icon Award,
In terms of nominations,Taylor Swiftleads with nine nods, followed byAlex Warren,Sabrina CarpenterandBad Bunnywith eight each.
Performers at this year's iHeartRadio Music Awards will include Warren, Mellencamp,Kehlani,Lainey Wilson, Ludacris,RAYE,TLCandSalt-N-PepaandEn Vogue.
The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards are airing live on FOX from Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 26.
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