Madonna Returns as MTV VMAs Bring Big Tributes Tonight

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards are underway tonight at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with Snoop Dogg hosting the ceremony. Madonna opened the show with her first VMAs performance since 2003, marking a major return to the stage after collecting a leading 13 nominations this year.

The lineup also includes tributes to Dolly Parton and George Michael, plus performances from LISA, Yung Lean, Shaboozey, Gunna, Sienna Spiro, and GENER8ION. Madonna’s presence is especially notable as she leads all artists in nominations, while Kacey Musgraves is set to honor Parton and earn a Best Country nomination for “Dry Spell.”

Nirvana’s surviving members — Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear — are also appearing as the band receives this year’s Video Vanguard Award. Other expected collaborations include Sombr, RAYE, and Teddy Swims for the George Michael tribute, and Gunna with Shaboozey on “High Noon.”