Steve Vai, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Washington
- Last updated on
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According to a well-informed source, Steve Vai is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the guitarist's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 17/03/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Vai for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 65-year-old guitarist, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Vai so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the guitarist have already been named ‘American Of The Year’ by some major American newspapers and even ‘Carle Place Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Carle Place (Steve Vai's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the guitarist was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Steve Vai Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 16 Mar 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveSteve”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 16 Mar 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Steve Vai?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 16 Mar 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Steve Vai?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
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