Bette Midler Set to Receive 2026 Woody Guthrie Prize for Her Advocacy and Social Impact
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Midler is scheduled to accept the award on October 16 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Bette Midler has earned numerous honors throughout her career, and she is now set to receive an award with a particularly significant connection to her values and advocacy.
On October 16 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the 80-year-old entertainer will be presented with the 2026 Woody Guthrie Prize. The annual honor recognizes an artist whose work reflects the spirit and social consciousness of the late folk music icon, particularly through efforts to speak up for disadvantaged and marginalized communities.
The ceremony celebrating Midler will include remarks from members of Woody Guthrie’s family, a discussion between Midler and journalist Rona Elliot, and an acoustic performance by country artist Bryan Andrews.
Midler expressed her gratitude for being selected, recalling her admiration for Guthrie’s music and the principles he represented. She said his commitment to fairness, justice and equality had influenced generations of people, including herself.
The “Hocus Pocus” actress also reflected on Guthrie’s legacy, describing him as a musician who gave a voice to people without power and used his songs to portray the struggles faced by ordinary Americans.
Midler said receiving an award named after Guthrie is both deeply meaningful and humbling. She noted that his example demonstrates how artists and writers can challenge injustice while offering comfort and encouragement to those who are struggling.
Among Guthrie’s songs, Midler has identified “I Ain’t Got No Home in This World Anymore” as a personal favorite. She also recently reworked his song “All You Fascists Bound to Lose,” recording and releasing her own adaptation earlier this year.
Established in 2014, the Woody Guthrie Prize is presented annually to artists who carry forward Guthrie’s legacy by using creative work—including music, film, literature and dance—to promote positive social change.
Midler joins an accomplished group of previous honorees, including Bruce Springsteen, Pete Seeger, John Mellencamp, Norman Lear and U2.
Organizers also highlighted Midler’s longstanding involvement in environmental protection, preservation of public spaces, LGBTQ+ rights, public health and humanitarian efforts.
Guthrie’s daughter, Nora, praised Midler for combining entertainment with activism, describing her as one of the uncommon artists who bring happiness, humor and compassion to the ongoing fight for positive change.