Brief

Madonna Returns to VMAs with Star‑Studded Medley

The iconic pop star launched the ceremony with a dynamic set that blended classic hits and new material, drawing praise for its theatrical flair.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:16:05 GMT

Madonna opened the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, delivering a high‑energy medley that featured Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX. The performance, which marked her first live appearance at the VMAs in 23 years, was billed as one of the show’s most memorable moments.

The set began with a collaboration with Carpenter, who joined Madonna on piano while the singer performed a medley of “One Step Away,” “Bring Your Love,” and “Danceteria” from her new album Confessions II. The duo’s stage presence was described as theatrical, with Carpenter twisting and crawling in glitter‑spangled attire while Madonna performed a choreographed routine that included a dramatic interlude with a gospel choir.

Charli XCX later joined the stage for “Danceteria,” transforming the venue into a recreation of the famed 1980s New York disco. The performance featured references to iconic scenes and a playful nod to the club’s history, with the stage design incorporating a bathroom set that evoked the original venue’s atmosphere.

Madonna’s return was highlighted by her long‑standing influence on the VMAs, having first appeared in 1984 and most recently in 2003. The 2026 ceremony, hosted by Snoop Dogg, was delayed by over 20 minutes due to an NFL game but ultimately aired live on CBS, MTV and Paramount+.

Key facts

Madonna opened the 2026 VMAs with a medley featuring Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX (rollingstone.com)
The performance included songs from her album Confessions II (rollingstone.com)
The ceremony was hosted by Snoop Dogg and delayed by over 20 minutes due to an NFL game (rollingstone.com)
The 2026 VMAs aired live on CBS, MTV and Paramount+ (rollingstone.com)

Background

Madonna’s return to the VMAs follows her announcement in mid‑September that she would open the ceremony after a 23‑year hiatus. The event also featured tributes to Dolly Parton and George Michael, and Nirvana received its first Video Vanguard award as a band.

Timeline

2026-09-16 — Madonna announced she would open the 2026 VMAs
2026-09-22 — Nirvana received the Video Vanguard award
2026-09-28 — Madonna performed at the VMAs

Why it matters

Madonna’s performance underscored her enduring influence on pop culture and the VMAs’ legacy of celebrating iconic artists.

What happens next

The 2026 VMAs concluded with a tribute to Dolly Parton and a Video Vanguard award for Nirvana; the ceremony’s broadcast will be available worldwide the following day.