Madonna is returning to the MTV Video Music Awards! The 68-year-old Queen of Pop will open the 2026 VMAs with her first live performance at the ceremony in 23 years.
The last time Madonna performed at the VMAs was in 2003, when she opened the show alongside Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Missy Elliott. It was during that performance that one of the most talked-about moments in VMA history took place — Madonna kissed both Britney and Christina onstage.
The singer’s return comes during an especially significant year for her. In 2026, Madonna leads the VMA nominations with 11 nods, including Artist of the Year, Video of the Year for Confessions II – The Film, and Song of the Year for “Bring Your Love,” her collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter.
Madonna’s VMA history dates back to 1984, when she performed “Like a Virgin” at the very first ceremony. In 1986, she became the first solo female artist to receive the Video Vanguard Award. Over the years, she has delivered some of the awards show’s most iconic performances, including “Vogue” in 1990 and “Bye Bye Baby” in 1993.
In 2021, Madonna made a surprise appearance at the VMAs to celebrate MTV’s 40th anniversary. Now, she is returning as the ceremony’s headline performer.
The show will take place on September 27 in Los Angeles, with Snoop Dogg serving as host.
Madonna’s return also coincides with the release of her 15th studio album, Confessions II, the long-awaited follow-up to her iconic record Confessions on a Dance Floor.
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