Get your calendars out and circle this one in bright red! The X-Rated Critics Organization (XRCO) has officially dropped the date for its 42nd annual awards show, and the industry is already buzzing. Mark it down: Sunday, May 24, 2026, is the night the critics’ choices will be crowned.
Back to a Hollywood Classic
Returning to its beloved haunt, the ceremony will once again take over the historic Boardner’s in Hollywood. This iconic venue, dripping with old-school Tinseltown glamour, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening that celebrates both the industry’s trailblazing legends and its hottest new stars. For one night, the classic location at 1652 N. Cherokee Ave. will become the epicenter of adult entertainment.
Founded way back in 1984, the XRCO Awards have carved out a unique and respected niche. Unlike other shows, these awards aren’t decided by fans or industry politics. They are, as the name suggests, chosen by the people who watch, review, and write about adult content for a living.
“The XRCO Awards, voted on exclusively by adult entertainment critics and writers, continue to recognize outstanding achievements in performance, direction and production.”
For performers and creators, an XRCO win is a special kind of validation—a nod from the critics that your work truly stands out as exceptional art and entertainment.
An Industry-Only Affair
One of the things that makes the XRCO Awards so special is its atmosphere. This isn’t a stuffy, formal gala. It’s a free, industry-only party where nominees and their peers can let loose, celebrate each other’s work, and reconnect as a community. It’s as much a family reunion as it is an awards show.
A major highlight every year is the induction of new members into the XRCO Hall of Fame, a powerful moment that honors the icons who paved the way. In an industry that’s constantly evolving with new platforms and trends, this tradition of honoring its own history feels more important than ever.
What’s Next?
While the date is set, the suspense is just beginning. The hosts and trophy presenters for the 2026 show are still under wraps and will be announced closer to the event, giving everyone plenty to speculate about for the next couple of years.
For brands looking to get involved, sponsorship opportunities for the big night are already open. To get more information, you can head over to the official XRCO website, mentioned as xrco.com.
Keep up with all the pre-show buzz and announcements by following XRCO on their socials: X @xrcoawards, Bluesky @xrcoawards.bsky.social, and LoyalFans @xrco.
“It is a free adult industry-only evening that both nominees and attendees eagerly look forward to every year.”
The countdown to May 24, 2026, has officially begun!
* Photo from avn.com
