Lady Gaga and Blackpink’s Jennie Skip the 2026 MTV VMAs

Gaga and Jennie were absent from the VMAs, each giving reasons tied to new projects and personal life.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:30:42 GMT

Lady Gaga and Blackpink’s Jennie were not seen at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, despite each having two nominations that night. Gaga, who had finished her Mayhem Ball Tour in April, was absent as she focuses on her first child with fiancé Michael Polansky. Jennie, who released her solo EP Fallen Angel on 28 August, said she is taking time to explore new directions and keep her future plans open.

Gaga’s family focus

Gaga earned nominations for Best Dance and Best Art Direction for her collaboration with Doechii on “Runway.” She was not on the red carpet and did not attend the ceremony. A source told People on 11 September that she had quietly welcomed her first child, and a later source explained that she has chosen to slow down after her tour and spend time with the baby. The singer posted a makeup tutorial on Instagram that Friday, but said she is enjoying being away from the public eye.

Jennie’s solo plans

Jennie, who finished the Deadline World Tour in January, was also absent. She has two nominations for Best Group and Best K‑pop for Blackpink’s “Jump.” Jennie released her solo EP Fallen Angel on 28 August, making her eligible for next year’s VMAs. She last performed publicly at Lollapalooza in Chicago on 1 August. In an interview with Cosmopolitan last month, she said she is leaving a blank space in her head to see what happens, and that she is more in control of her studio work but not chasing perfection.

Other nominees and performances

The ceremony, hosted by Snoop Dogg and opening with a return from Madonna, featured nominations for Nirvana’s Video Vanguard award and a George Michael tribute. Taylor Swift also earned her first Artist Director Honors, bringing her total VMA trophies to 31.

Key facts

Lady Gaga was nominated for Best Dance and Best Art Direction for “Runway.” (elle.com)
Jennie was nominated for Best Group and Best K‑pop for “Jump.” (elle.com)
Gaga has a first child with fiancé Michael Polansky. (elle.com)
Jennie released her solo EP <em>Fallen Angel</em> on 28 August. (elle.com)
The VMAs took place on 27 September 2026 in Los Angeles. (elle.com)

Background

Both artists had recently wrapped major tours and were focusing on personal projects. Gaga’s tour ended in April, while Jennie’s Deadline World Tour finished in January.