Brief
VMAs 2026 face backlash after late start, missing stars and mixed reviews
The 2026 VMAs, hosted by Snoop Dogg in Los Angeles, were delayed by 20 minutes, missed several top artists and drew negative comments from fans on X.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles and hosted by Snoop Dogg, began 20 minutes after the scheduled start time, prompting frustration among viewers who had tuned in for the opening performance.
According to the official VMAs X account, the broadcast was delayed because the preceding NFL game between the Cowboys and the Ravens finished early, and the show was not available on CBS or Paramount+ until 7:50 p.m. local time.
Several high‑profile performers were absent from the ceremony. Ariana Grande, Zara Larsson, Olivia Rodrigo and Lady Gaga did not appear, while Madonna’s opening set was described by some viewers as “utterly unfocused” and accused of lip‑syncing. The show also featured a tribute to George Michael and the first Video Vanguard award for Nirvana, as reported by Felo News.
Fans took to X to express disappointment, with comments such as “Getting the feeling this might be the last VMAs” and “Honestly the VMAs have felt like a funeral for years.” Some viewers called for the show to be cancelled or “pulled the plug.”
Despite the criticism, the event was broadcast on CBS, MTV and Paramount+, and was available worldwide the following day. The ceremony also included performances from Madonna, Sabrina Carpenter and Shaboozey, and appearances by Taylor Swift, Lisa Rinna and Adam Lambert on the red carpet.
Key facts
- The 2026 VMAs began 20 minutes late, at 7:50 p.m. local time (dailymail.co.uk)
- Ariana Grande, Zara Larsson, Olivia Rodrigo and Lady Gaga were absent (dailymail.co.uk)
- Madonna opened the show and was criticised for a lip‑syncing performance (dailymail.co.uk)
- The event was delayed because a preceding NFL game finished early (dailymail.co.uk)
Background
The 2026 VMAs were the first to return to the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles in nine years and featured a tribute to George Michael and Nirvana’s first Video Vanguard award as a band, as reported by Felo News.
Why it matters
The delays and absences raised questions about the relevance and management of the VMAs, a flagship music awards event.
What happens next
No official statement has been released regarding changes to future VMAs.
Sources
- [1] dailymail.co.uk — originally reported as “VMAs viewers urge organizers to 'pull the plug' on award show”
