Entertainment
Madonna will open 2026 VMAs in her first show performance in 23 years
The pop star leads the nominees with 11 nods for the Los Angeles show hosted by Snoop Dogg
The short version
- Madonna is set to open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, marking her first live performance on the show in 23 years.[Billboard]
- The performance will break a tie with Rihanna for the most VMA show openings by any artist.[Billboard]
- Madonna leads all nominees this year with 11 nominations following her recent album release.[Billboard]
- hosted by Snoop Dogg, the broadcast will air live on September 27 from Los Angeles across CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.[Variety · Billboard]
Key facts
- Madonna is opening the 2026 VMAs, her first live performance on the show since 2003.[Variety · Billboard]
- This marks Madonna's fifth time opening the VMAs, setting a record previously shared with Rihanna.[Billboard]
- Madonna leads the 2026 nominations with 11 nods.[Variety · Billboard]
- The event will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and broadcast live on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+ on September 27.[Variety · Billboard]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.