Madonna Kicks Off VMAs 2026 With Star-Studded Performance

Madonna opened the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards with a vibrant performance, marking her return to the VMA stage for the first time since 2003. The iconic artist performed her song “Bring Your Love” alongside Sabrina Carpenter and later presented “Danceteria Afterhours” with Charli XCX.

For her opening number, Madonna donned a sleek black silk blazer over a wine-red bodysuit, cinched with a corset belt. She later added a lace-up leather jacket, paired with knee-high boots and red fingerless gloves, for her performance with Charli XCX. Carpenter's ensemble paid homage to 1980s style with a beret, sparkling hot pants, and suspenders, while Charli XCX sported a black ultra-mini skirt that revealed a glimpse of purple underwear.

The performance featured a host of celebrity backup dancers, including Julia Garner, Debi Mazer, and Seth Rogen.

This year's VMAs saw Madonna lead the nominations with 11 nods, a personal record, including Artist of the Year and Video of the Year for her work on “Confessions II — The Film.” Her duet with Sabrina Carpenter, “Bring Your Love,” also earned a Song of the Year nomination. A win in any category would mark her first VMA in 27 years.

Madonna expressed her joy on Instagram about her latest album, stating, “My dream was to make people dance this summer!! To bring people JOY! Dreams do come true.” The accompanying film for the album and her 68th birthday gown were both created in collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana, a house that has dressed the artist since her 1993 “Girlie Show” tour.

Her previous VMA appearance in 2003, where she kissed Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, remains one of the ceremony's most talked-about moments. Over the years, Madonna has consistently used the VMA stage for memorable fashion statements and performances.

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards are being broadcast live on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+. The ceremony is hosted by Snoop Dogg.