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Role Model Skates Into NHL Winter Classic
18 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Alternative-pop artist Role Model will headline the 2026 NHL Winter Classic entertainment.
- The Florida Panthers will host the New York Rangers in Miami on January 2, 2026.
- Role Model's performance will be during the first intermission and pregame festival.
The 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic, set for January 2, 2026, will feature a performance by rising alternative-pop artist Role Model. The event will take place at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida, and will be the first Winter Classic ever held in the Sunshine State. The game itself will pit the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers against the New York Rangers.
Role Model, whose real name is Tucker Pillsbury, will headline the entertainment, performing during the first intermission. Prior to the game, he will also perform at the 2026 Enterprise NHL PreGame, the fan festival leading up to the Winter Classic. This marks a significant milestone for the artist, who recently topped a Billboard chart with his song 'Sally, When the Wine Runs Out'.
The NHL Winter Classic, established in 2008, is an annual New Year's Day outdoor regular-season game. Past performers have included major artists like Weezer and The Smashing Pumpkins. The 2026 game will be broadcast live on TNT and HBO Max in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.
