Michael Johnston Nominated for 2026 Vanguard Award by Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild
The Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild has announced its latest career honoree, recognizing significant contributions to the industry.
Michael Johnston, a celebrated makeup artist with multiple Emmy nominations, will be awarded the 2026 Vanguard Award at the 13th MUAHS Awards in February. Johnston is known for his pivotal role in launching the career of Ariana Grande and has spent over 30 years working on a range of hit Nickelodeon shows.
His extensive credits include beloved series such as All That, its 2019 reboot, The Amanda Show, Zoey 101, Henry Danger, iCarly, Victorious, Drake & Josh, Sam & Cat, Danger Force, Game Shakers, and The Fairly OddParents. He has collaborated with various rising talents, including Grande, her brother Frankie, Kenan Thompson, Miranda Cosgrove, Nick Cannon, Jamie Lynn Spears, Drake Bell, Jace Norman, and Amanda Bynes.
In addition to his studio work, Johnston led the makeup department for the Kids’ Choice Awards for six years.
Watch on Deadline
Johnston’s accolades include three Primetime Emmy nominations and two nominations for the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, along with various honors from the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild, such as the Outstanding Artisan Award. He is currently the Chairman of the Rules and Regulations Committee for the MUAHS Awards.
According to the guild, the Vanguard Award honors individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the makeup and hair styling industry while leaving a lasting impact on the craft.
“He exemplifies what it means to be a trailblazer, championing talented artists who bring children’s programming to life,” said MUAHS President Julie Socash, praising Johnston’s work. “Beyond his own remarkable work as a makeup artist, Michael was the driving force behind establishing our MUAHS Children’s category. His unwavering dedication to [IATSE] Local 706 and the MUAHS Awards has elevated the show to new heights, attracting submissions from around the world and spotlighting artistry that might otherwise go unseen.”
The MUAHS Awards celebrate artistic excellence in makeup and hairstyling across various categories, including film, television, music videos, Broadway, and theme parks. The upcoming ceremony recognizing the best work of 2025 is scheduled for February 14 at the Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles.
On Tuesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed the shortlist for the Makeup & Hairstyling Oscar, along with nominees for 11 other categories.
