Willie Nelson, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Washington
- Last updated on
Hot news
- Buzz January 15, 2026
- Love January 11, 2026
- Rumor Central January 2026
According to a well-informed source, Willie Nelson 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 15/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Nelson 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 92-year-old guitarist, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Nelson 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 ‘Abbott Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Abbott (Willie Nelson'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:
“Willie Nelson Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 14 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveWillie”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 14 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Willie Nelson?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 14 Jan 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Willie Nelson?
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?
© 2026 MediaMass All rights reserved. Do not reproduce (even with permission).
Willie Nelson: Recent News
- Money January 14, 2026
- Love January 15, 2026
- Music January 2026
Celebrity Central