Madonna to Open the 2026 VMAs in First Show Performance in 23 Years

The road to the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards just added another major moment.

CBS and MTV announced September 16 that Madonna will open the 2026 VMAs, marking her first live performance at the awards show in 23 years.

The return brings one of the most recognizable figures in VMA history back to the stage as this year’s most-nominated artist. Madonna enters the 2026 ceremony with 11 nominations, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year and Song of the Year.

Madonna’s relationship with the VMAs stretches back to the show’s earliest years. Her appearances have included the landmark “Like a Virgin” performance during the inaugural 1984 broadcast, the “Express Yourself” opening performance in 1989 and the theatrical “Vogue” performance in 1990.

She last performed at the VMAs in 2003, appearing alongside Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera during one of the ceremony’s most widely remembered performances.

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards will air live from Los Angeles on Sunday, September 27, from 7:30–9:30 PM ET / 4:30–6:30 PM PT on CBS. The ceremony will simulcast on MTV and stream on Paramount+ Premium in the United States.

Snoop Dogg will host the 2026 ceremony.

Madonna’s return adds another major development to the countdown as Urban Global Entertainment & Media continues its Road to the 2026 VMAs remote editorial coverage leading into the September 27 broadcast.