Emmy-Nominated Make-Up Artist Michael Johnston to Receive the Vanguard Award at the 13th Annual MUAHS Awards
Celebrated for over 30 years of iconic work in Children’s and Teen Television, Johnston joins industry legends at the Valentine’s Day Gala in Los Angeles
The Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (MUAHS, IATSE Local 706) has announced that Emmy-nominated make-up artist Michael Johnston will receive the prestigious Vanguard Award at the 13th Annual MUAHS Awards, presented by L’Oréal Groupe and Giovanni Eco Chic Beauty. The gala event will take place on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles.
Johnston is a pioneering force in children’s and teen television, with more than 30 years of experience shaping the visual identity of some of Nickelodeon’s most iconic shows. From whimsical designs to trend-setting styles, his artistry has defined generations of kids’ entertainment. Johnston’s credits include beloved series such as All That, The Amanda Show, Zoey 101, Henry Danger, iCarly, Victorious, Drake & Josh, Sam & Cat, Danger Force, Game Shakers, and The Fairly OddParents, as well as the All That reboot. Johnston also headed the make-up department for the Kids’ Choice Awards for six years.
Throughout his career, Johnston has helped launch the careers of stars, including Ariana Grande, with whom he traveled for eight years, and her brother Frankie Grande. Other notable names include Kenan Thompson, Nick Cannon, Jamie Lynn Spears, Miranda Cosgrove, Drake Bell, Jace Norman, and Amanda Bynes. His artistry has earned him three Primetime Emmy® nominations, two Children’s and Family Emmy Award nominations, and numerous honors from the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild, including an Outstanding Artisan Award. In total, Johnston has achieved 12 wins and 19 nominations. He currently serves as Chairman of the Rules and Regulations Committee for the MUAHS Awards.
For a complete Michael Johnston biography and headshot, CLICK HERE.
The Vanguard Award is presented to an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the makeup and hair styling industry and has left a lasting impact on the craft.
“I’m thrilled to share that Michael will receive the prestigious Vanguard Award—a recognition he truly deserves. He exemplifies what it means to be a trailblazer, championing talented artists who bring children’s programming to life. 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 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.,” said Julie Socash, President, MUAHS, IATSE Local 706.
As previously announced, Oscar®-nominated and Emmy-winning make-up artist Greg Nelson and Oscar-nominated hair stylist Judy Alexander Cory will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards. The Distinguished Artisan honoree will be announced soon.
The MUAHS Awards recognize excellence in the artistry and creativity of Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists across various categories, including motion pictures, television, music videos, Broadway and international theater productions, and theme parks.
Returning as producers of this year’s MUAHS Awards (#MUAHSawards) are IngleDodd Media and Erick Weiss of Honeysweet Creative. Further inquiries regarding the MUAHS Awards should be directed to MUAHSAwardsSupport@IngleDodd.com. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.local706.org.
For MUAHS Awards Media Credentials: CLICK HERE.
The 13th Annual MUAHS Awards are proudly sponsored by Presenting Level: L’Oréal Groupe, Giovanni Eco Chic Beauty; Premier Level: Ardell, Diamond Level: Nigel Beauty; Gold Level: Codex Labs, Le Mieux Skincare, MAC, RCMA; Silver Level: The Set Set, Westmore Beauty; Media Sponsors: Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, The Powder Group, Shoot Online, Variety, The Wrap.
ABOUT LOCAL 706: The Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild (IATSE, Local 706) was chartered in November 1937. Today, its diverse membership includes over 2,300 Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists working in motion pictures, television, commercials, music videos, theme parks, and live theater. The Guild recognizes outstanding achievements through its annual MUAHS Awards and welcomes FYC promotions in its official member-only publication, website, email, and social media platforms.
For more information on the 13th Annual MUAHS Awards Show, visit Local706.org or follow us at #MUAHS_awards, @muahs_awards, TikTok, X, and Threads.
SUBMISSIONS/ELIGIBILITY:
MUAHS Awards Submissions: MUAHS Awards Submission
MUAHS Awards Support Team: MUAHSAwardsSupport@IngleDodd.com
SPONSORSHIP/ADVERTISING/TICKETS CONTACT:
IngleDodd Media • 310.207.4410, ext. 245 • MUAHSawards@IngleDodd.com
PRESS CONTACTS:
Weissman/Markovitz Communications • Cheri Warner • Andy Aguinada
cheri@publicity4all.com • andy@publicity4all.com • 818.760.8995
For MUAHS Awards Media Credentials: CLICK HERE.
TALENT RELATIONS CONTACT:
Marley Wittuck • marley.wittuck@gmail.com
