Clear your schedules for spring 2026, because one of the adult industry’s most prestigious nights has officially been marked on the calendar! The X-Rated Critics Organization (XRCO) just announced that its celebrated awards ceremony will be making its return on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the iconic Hollywood venue, Boardners.
For performers, directors, and studios, an XRCO award is more than just a trophy—it’s a badge of honor, a nod of approval from the industry’s most seasoned writers and critics. It’s the “insiders’ choice” award, and the anticipation for who will take home the gold is already building.
The Critics’ Choice
Unlike fan-voted awards, the XRCO Awards have a unique reputation. Since their inception in 1984, they’ve been decided exclusively by a panel of industry journalists and critics. This focus on critical acclaim is what gives the awards their weight and distinction.
“The XRCO Awards, voted on exclusively by adult entertainment critics and writers, continue to recognize outstanding achievements in performance, direction, and production,” an organization representative stated.
This peer-reviewed nature means that winning an XRCO award is a true testament to the art, craft, and innovation behind a project or performance. It’s a signal that you haven’t just captured the audience’s attention, but you’ve also impressed the toughest critics in the room.
Back at Boardners: A Hollywood Classic
The choice of venue is no surprise. Boardners is a legendary Hollywood haunt, steeped in Tinseltown history since the 1940s. Its classic, moody vibe provides the perfect backdrop for an evening that’s all about celebrating the best in the business. Holding the ceremony there grounds the event in a sense of classic showbiz glamour, making it feel less like a stuffy ceremony and more like an exclusive, high-energy party.
Building on the Buzz
While 2026 might feel far away, the excitement from the most recent XRCO show is still fresh. The 2024 awards, hosted by the charismatic duo of Cherie DeVille and Small Hands, were a massive success. As reported by outlets like AVN and XBIZ, the night saw major wins for superstars like Vanna Bardot, who took home multiple trophies including for Female Performer of the Year, and Charles Dera, who was crowned Male Performer of the Year. These wins set the bar high and give a taste of the caliber of talent that will be celebrated in 2026.
What’s Next?
With the date and location now set in stone, the next big reveals will be the hosts and trophy presenters for the 2026 show. The XRCO team is keeping those names under wraps for now, but if past years are any indication, we can expect some of the industry’s most beloved and respected figures to take the stage.
For now, the countdown begins. The XRCO Awards remain a vital touchstone in the adult world, a night where artistry is honored, and the creators pushing the boundaries get the recognition they truly deserve. As one past winner mentioned on social media after their win, “This one means so much because it comes from people who watch and write about this industry every single day.” And that’s a sentiment that never goes out of style.
