Madonna is set to return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage after 23 years, with the pop star scheduled to open the 2026 ceremony.
The performance is set for Sunday, September 27, 2026, marking Madonna’s first VMAs performance since 2003. She first appeared at the inaugural ceremony in 1984, when she performed “Like a Virgin,” and has remained closely associated with the awards throughout her career.
Madonna’s return comes as she promotes Confessions II, a follow-up to her 2005 album Confessions on a Dance Floor. The project has been supported by a series of events known as Club Confessions.
She also enters this year’s ceremony with 11 nominations, the highest number received by any artist at the 2026 VMAs.
Her nominations include Artist of the Year, Video of the Year, Best Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Choreography, Best Art Direction, Best Visual Effects and Best Editing. She is also nominated for Song of the Year and Best Collaboration for “Bring Your Love,” featuring Sabrina Carpenter.
The nominations give Madonna an opportunity to claim her first VMAs win in 27 years.
Madonna previously made history at the awards when she became the first woman to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1986.
MTV has also announced Nirvana as the recipients of this year’s Video Vanguard Award, with the remaining 2026 VMAs performers and honourees expected to be revealed ahead of the ceremony.
Ademide Adebayo
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