Madonna returns to VMAs after more than 20 years with Carpenter
Madonna performed at the VMAs for the first time in more than 20 years, opening the show with Sabrina Carpenter.
The 2026 Video Music Awards in Los Angeles brought Madonna back to the stage for the first time in more than 20 years. The Queen of Pop opened the ceremony with Sabrina Carpenter on their song Bring Your Love, later joined by Charli XCX for a remix of Danceteria.
The collaboration won Best Collaboration. Madonna revealed she had grown impatient waiting for Carpenter's response and sent her a direct message to set up the song.
BLACKPINK's LISA won Best Pop for Dream, defeating nominees including Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift. Hosted by Snoop Dogg, the night included an emotional tribute by Kacey Musgraves to country music legend Dolly Parton, who died one month earlier.
Taylor Swift is scheduled to premiere her Patient Zero music video and receive MTV's inaugural Artist Director Honors.
- 13 nominations
- Madonna's awards
- 11 nominations
- Taylor Swift's awards
- More than 20
- Years since Madonna last performed at
- Los Angeles
- Location
Why it mattersMadonna's return after a long absence marks a significant moment in pop culture and mainstream music awards.
AustraliaAustralian fans of Madonna and Taylor Swift gain live coverage of the major US music awards ceremony, with both artists prominent in nominations and performances.
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