Brief

Red‑Carpet Highlights at the 2026 VMAs: From Madonna’s Return to Sienna Spiro’s Retro Gown

The ceremony, held at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre, showcased a mix of historic performances and bold fashion statements from artists such as Madonna, Sienna Spiro and Sabrina Carpenter.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 20:37:52 GMT

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards opened Sunday night at the Peacock Theatre in downtown Los Angeles with Madonna’s first live performance in 23 years, while Snoop Dogg hosted the broadcast. The show was delayed by over 20 minutes due to an NFL game, but the star‑filled red‑carpet still delivered memorable looks.

Fashion on the Red‑Carpet

Among the most talked‑about outfits was singer Sienna Spiro’s champagne‑hued, bejeweled nude illusion gown with a deep neckline, a retro‑inspired look that drew on 1960s icons such as the Ronettes, the Shangri‑Las and the Supremes. Spiro, who is nominated for Best New Artist, performed during the telecast.

Sabrina Carpenter arrived in a vintage Dolce & Gabbana dress with black tassels, accepting the Best Collaboration award for “Bring Your Love” with Madonna. The dress echoed the artist’s earlier beaded tassel look at the event.

Other notable appearances included Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift, who was announced as the inaugural Artist Director Honors recipient. The ceremony also featured tributes to Dolly Parton and George Michael, the latter performed by RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims.

Highlights of the Ceremony

Madonna opened the show with a 14‑minute “Confessions — The Film” performance, earning her 11 nominations, including Video of the Year and Artist of the Year. Taylor Swift followed with nine nominations, while Grande and Carpenter each had seven. The event also honored Nirvana with its first Video Vanguard award as a band.

Key facts

Madonna opened the 2026 VMAs after a 23‑year hiatus (hollywoodreporter.com)
Sienna Spiro wore a champagne‑hued, bejeweled nude illusion gown (smh.com.au)
Sabrina Carpenter accepted the Best Collaboration award for “Bring Your Love” with Madonna (smh.com.au)
The ceremony was delayed by over 20 minutes due to an NFL game (hollywoodreporter.com)
Nirvana received its first Video Vanguard award as a band (hollywoodreporter.com)

Background

The 2026 VMAs returned to Los Angeles after a brief hiatus, with MTV and CBS airing the broadcast live. The event featured a mix of historic performances and fashion statements, drawing attention from fans and media alike.