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John Mellencamp shared a heartfelt moment with his daughter, Teddi Mellencamp, when he accepted the iHeartRadio ICON Award during the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday evening (March 26).
Teddi Mellencamp, 44, presented the ICON Award to her father after an emotional tribute, including saying that he “saved my life,” amid her battle with cancer. The legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member, 74, handed the award back to his daughter.
“I’m going to take this award and I’m going to give it to Teddi. So that’s yours,” John Mellencamp said. He went on to address the next generation of artists as he reflected on his decades-long career: “I’ve been doing this 50 years and I’ve enjoyed most of it. And I want to say that for all you young people who are starting out, there’s nothing closer to heaven than writing a song, or hearing your songs on the radio, or having a show. So good luck to all you young people, and I hope that you guys enjoy your 50 years as much as I did mine.”
John Mellencamp went on to deliver an acoustic performance — prompting a sing-along moment throughout the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California — of “Jack & Diane,” and “Little Pink Houses,” two of his most iconic career hits.
Check back with iHeartRadio for a list of winners, a photo gallery of red carpet looks, recaps of unforgettable performances and other moments from this year’s show.