Madonna will return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on Sept. 27, opening the ceremony for the fifth time, 23 years after her last live performance at the event.
The pop star is also the leading nominee for this year’s awards, with 11 nominations following the release of her No. 1 album, Confessions II.
Madonna last performed at the VMAs in 2003, when she joined Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Missy Elliott for a medley of “Like a Virgin” and “Hollywood.” The performance became a defining VMA moment after Madonna kissed Spears and Aguilera on stage.
Her return will also set a new record for the most VMA opening performances. She previously opened the ceremony in 1989 with “Express Yourself,” in 1993 with “Bye Bye Baby,” in 1998 with “Shanti/Astangi” and “Ray of Light,” and in 2003.
This year, Madonna is nominated for Video of the Year and Best Dance for Confessions II – The Film, which stars Julia Garner, Benedict Cumberbatch and Kate Moss.
The film has also received nominations for Best Direction, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Choreography and Best Visual Effects.
Madonna is additionally nominated for Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for “Bring Your Love,” her collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter. The song is also nominated for Best Collaboration.
The 2026 VMAs will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and broadcast live from Los Angeles on Sept. 27 on CBS, MTV and Paramount+ in the United States.
