Madonna to Open 2026 MTV VMAs in First Performance Since 2003

Twenty-three years after her last appearance, Madonna is set to open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards. The announcement came on Wednesday, September 16.

The 2003 Opening and Its Legacy

Her most recent VMAs performance took place at the start of the 2003 ceremony. That moment featured a widely circulated kiss shared with Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.

Nominations and Historical Recognition

Madonna leads this year’s nominations with 11 nods. She has accumulated 19 career wins at the VMAs. She previously held the top-nomination spot in 1998 and 1990.

The artist received the inaugural Video Vanguard Award in 1986 — the first person ever to be honored with that distinction.

Broadcast Details and Host

Snoop Dogg will host the 2026 VMAs. The ceremony airs Sunday, September 27, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time (4:30 p.m. Pacific Time) on CBS. It will also simulcast on MTV and stream live on Paramount+.

Additional performers, presenters, and special guests are expected to be announced in the coming days. A full list of nominees is available separately.