Madonna will return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on Sunday for the first time in more than two decades, opening the ceremony as she seeks to add to her 20 career wins.
The 68-year-old Queen of Pop is also among the leading nominees, with 11 nominations listed for the night. A clean sweep would take her career total to 33 Moon Persons.
The 2026 VMAs will be held at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles, marking the ceremony’s return to the West Coast for the first time since 2017. The 7,100-seat venue last hosted the awards in 2015, when it was known as the Microsoft Theater.
When and where to watch the 2026 VMAs
The ceremony begins at 7.30pm ET, or 4.30pm PT, on Sunday September 27. It will be shown on CBS television stations and MTV, and will also stream on Paramount+.
Live red-carpet coverage will begin at 6pm ET, or 3pm PT, ahead of the main ceremony.
Snoop Dogg is hosting this year’s show. The rapper, known for songs including “Beautiful”, “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Gin and Juice”, first performed at the VMAs in 1994 and has won three times.
Taylor Swift to receive new VMA honour
Taylor Swift will receive the first Artist Director Honors, recognising artists whose work behind the camera has broadened music videos and visual storytelling.
The award will make Swift the most decorated artist in VMA history, ending her tie with Beyoncé at 30 wins. Neither artist added to that total in 2025.
Swift is also nominated in 11 categories and will premiere her new “Patient Zero” music video during the ceremony.
Nirvana will receive this year’s Video Vanguard Award.
Madonna leads the performances
Madonna’s return follows her last VMA performance in August 2003. She will be joined on the bill by LISA, who will perform her new single “SaWaDiKa”, and by GENER8ION and Yung Lean, who will give the world premiere of “Storm II”.
Kacey Musgraves will pay tribute to Dolly Parton, while Sombr, RAYE and Teddy Swims will perform in a tribute to George Michael.
Shaboozey will perform “Cowgirl”, which has received two nominations, and will join Gunna for their collaboration “High Noon”. Sienna Spiro, a nominee for best new artist, is also due to perform.
The other announced performers are GENER8ION, Gunna, RAYE, Sombr, Teddy Swims and Yung Lean.
Presenters will include Alex Warren, Belmont Cameli, Brandon Sklenar, Charli xcx, Ciara Miller, David Corenswet, Ella Bright, Isabel May, Jeff Probst, Rachel Dratch, Teyana Taylor, Troye Sivan and Tyla.
Voting and last year’s winners
Fan voting in most categories has closed, although voting remains open for best new artist and song of the summer. The summer award can be decided through MTV’s Instagram Stories until 11am ET on Sunday, while voting for best new artist will remain open after the ceremony begins.
At last year’s VMAs, Ariana Grande won video of the year for “Brighter Days Ahead”, while Lady Gaga was named artist of the year. Rosé and Bruno Mars took song of the year for “APT.”, and Alex Warren won best new artist.
Other 2025 winners included Sabrina Carpenter, Blackpink, Doechii, Shakira, Tyla, Coldplay, Mariah Carey, Charli xcx and Kendrick Lamar.
