Diana Ross absolutely stole the spotlight in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
On December 31, the Motown icon delivered a show-stopping performance during ABC’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, marking a full 50 years since her chart-topping hit “Theme From Mahogany (Do You Know Where You’re Going To)” first captured the world.
Ross left viewers stunned—not just by her vocals, but by the fact that she’s 81 years old. Dressed in a dazzling red sequined gown, the former The Supremes frontwoman rang in 2026 with a high-energy medley of career-defining classics including “Upside Down,” “Take Me Higher,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Part of her set was performed from an elevated platform above the crowd, just moments before the iconic ball drop.
Mid-performance, Ross paused to tell fans how “grateful” she felt for the many blessings in her life. As confetti filled the air, she stood beside Seacrest, waving and blowing kisses to the crowd as the new year officially began.
Social media lit up almost instantly, with fans in disbelief over her age-defying presence.
@rockineve There's only one voice lifting us up into 2026… and it's Diana Ross 🎤 Tune in to #RockinEve NOW on @ABC ♬ original sound – New Year’s Rockin’ Eve
“I cannot believe that is an 81-year-old woman. She looks incredible,” one fan commented on a TikTok clip of her performance.
“She needs to drop her skincare routine immediately,” another joked.
On X, one viewer wrote, “Has an 81-year-old ever looked or sounded better? Diana Ross is absolutely legendary.” Another added, “She gave more stage presence than half the new artists today.”
Earlier in 2025, Ross shared some insight into how she stays happy and healthy. Speaking to People, she said she keeps busy doing what she loves, swims regularly to stay flexible, prioritizes sleep, and eats well—though she happily admits to indulging in Häagen-Dazs ice cream.
“The love for what I do keeps me grounded—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” Ross said. “I try not to carry unnecessary stress. I meditate in the mornings and pray at night.”
At 81, Diana Ross didn’t just ring in a new year—she reminded the world what true legend status looks like.