American gospel star Kirk Franklin surprised fans by inviting Nigerian singer Mercy Chinwo on stage for a powerful performance, captured in a viral video.

Kirk Franklin is set to host the 2026 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, where John P. Kee and Kim Person lead the nominations. Tasha Cobbs Leonard and JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise also received multiple nominations.

Tamela Mann has tied Kirk Franklin's record for the most Gospel Airplay No. 1s, achieving her 13th chart-topper with her song "Live Breathe Fight."